tayaca

Tayaca is a common name that can refer to several different species of birds, primarily within the family Caprimulgidae, commonly known as nightjars. The most prominent species referred to as tayaca is the White-tailed Nightjar, *Caprimulgus cayennensis*. This bird is found in various parts of South America, including Brazil, Argentina, and the Guianas. They are typically crepuscular or nocturnal, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk.

Physically, tayacas are characterized by their mottled plumage, which provides excellent camouflage against the forest floor or tree bark. They possess large eyes adapted for low-light conditions and a wide mouth, used for catching flying insects in flight. Their flight is often described as erratic and silent, making them difficult to spot.

The diet of the tayaca consists mainly of moths, beetles, and other flying insects. They hunt by sallying out from a perch or by flying low over open areas. Reproduction typically involves laying eggs directly on the ground, often in a shallow scrape, with no nest being built. Both parents usually share incubation and chick-rearing duties. The specific distribution and habitat preferences can vary slightly depending on the exact species being referred to by the common name tayaca.