Great eared nightjar spotted at Ban Krang for first time in 30 years

A great eared nightjar has been spotted at Ban Krang Camp in Kaeng Krachan National Park for the first time in around 30 years, drawing significant attention from wildlife enthusiasts and photographers during the Songkran holiday period.

The rare sighting was reported on 17 April by park chief Mongkol Chaipakdee, who said the bird appeared in clear view by the roadside near Ban Krang Camp, along the route towards Phanoen Thung Mountain. The presence of a great eared nightjar in the area, particularly in such visible conditions, is considered highly unusual.

The great eared nightjar is the largest member of the nightjar family found in Thailand. It is known for distinctive feather tufts on its head, resembling small ears, and its brown-grey plumage, which allows it to blend in with dry leaves and forest undergrowth. The species is typically active at night and remains well hidden during the day.

In this case, the bird remained perched and visible throughout daylight hours, allowing visitors to observe it at close range. Following the circulation of images on social media, the sighting attracted a steady flow of visitors to the area, particularly to the Lam Takhian stream 2 area near the camp.

Rare sighting draws photographers and visitors

Officials and observers reported that visitors and photographers queued in an orderly manner to take photographs, with vehicles lining the roadside. People took turns approaching the viewing point while maintaining a safe distance to avoid disturbing the bird.

For many, the sighting provided a rare opportunity to document a species that is seldom seen in the wild. The great eared nightjar is known for its strong camouflage and elusive behaviour, making confirmed sightings relatively uncommon.

Ban Krang Camp continues to be recognised as one of the country’s leading locations for birdwatching and butterfly observation, supported by a diverse ecosystem that includes both resident and migratory species throughout the year.

The latest sighting highlights the ecological value of Kaeng Krachan National Park and reflects ongoing conservation measures that support wildlife habitats in the area. Ban Krang is located approximately 1.5 hours from Hua Hin and remains a popular destination for nature-based tourism.