Food of the nightjars in Zimbabwe

Analysis of the stomach contents of 282 nightjars (Caprimulgidae) collected in Zimbabwe showed that the seven species concerned feed almost exclusivel y on nocturnal flying insects, predominantly on beetles (Coleoptera, 52.7%) , especially lamellicorn beetles (Scarabaeidae, 67.5% of all beetles), and to a lesser extent on moths (Lepidoptera, 12.7%), grasshoppers (Orthoptera, 7.2%), bugs (Hemiptera, 3.5%) and, when available, termites (Isoptera, 20. 4%). There is some seasonal variation in diet, and prey selection varies be tween species. Deliberate ingestion of grit to aid digestion is unlikely.