Nightjar ('caprimulgus europaeus')

Taxidermist: believed to be J. Hutchings of Aberystwyth
Case: a typical Hutchings case with glazed sides, rounded corners and feet; good condition
Date: 1880-1940
Dimensions: height x width x depth: 37 x 56 x 18.5 cms

The nightjar is found in light and dry conifer or mixed woodland, mainly with lots of pine trees. It claps its wings at the same time as performing acrobatics during courtship. It appears almost invisible during daytime by perching lengthwise on a tree branch, and often flies close to humans and animals in pursuit of airborne insects.

Description: Ceredigion Museum.