alouala

The alouala, commonly known as the **Egyptian nightjar** (*Caprimulgus aegyptius*), is a small nocturnal bird found in the Old World regions of Africa, the Middle East, and parts of southern Europe. Belonging to the nightjar family (Caprimulgidae), it is easily recognizable by its mottled brown plumage, which provides excellent camouflage against tree bark and foliage during the day. The alouala is most active at night, feeding primarily on insects such as moths, beetles, and other nocturnal arthropods, which it catches in mid-air with its wide gape.

This species inhabits a variety of open and semi-open environments, including savannas, desert edges, woodlands, and cultivated areas. It is particularly associated with dry regions, often nesting on the ground near shrubs or low vegetation. The alouala’s call, a distinctive *alouala-alouala* or *wit-wit-wit*, is a key identifying feature, especially during the breeding season. The male performs aerial displays to attract females, often rising high into the sky before descending with a rapid, fluttering flight.

The alouala is a migratory bird in some populations, moving seasonally between breeding and wintering grounds. It is generally considered a species of least concern by conservation organizations, though habitat loss and fragmentation pose potential threats in certain regions. Its adaptability to human-altered landscapes has contributed to its widespread distribution, though it remains sensitive to deforestation and intensive agriculture. The alouala plays a role in controlling insect populations, making it ecologically beneficial in its habitat.