Observações sobre a reprodução do curiango, Nyctidromus albicollis (Gmelin, 1789), (Aves: Caprimulgiformes) no estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil

Resumo

Although the Pauraque, Nyctidromus albicollis (Gmelin, 1789), is a common and widespread nightjar species (Aves: Caprimulgiformes), its breeding biology is still poorly known. The aim of this study is to provide new data on the reproduction of this species in Minas Gerais state, southeastern Brazil. Five nests were found in the period of 1994–1998, between August and November. Eggs were laid directly on the leaf litter, measuring between 28.1–31.2 mm and 20.8–22.6 mm. All eggs had a pink-orange coloration with pink-brownish marks pattern. Both parents alternated on the nest during both incubation and brooding periods. New behavioral observations for the species are presented, such as the female’s “broken-wing” diversionary behavior and the male’s threat display during the incubation period. We found an increase in the proportion of distraction displays (including “broken wing” and threat) performed by adult birds, from the incubation period towards the nestling period. We observed movements performed by the nestlings on two nests. We suggest that more data regarding the reproduction of common bird species are needed, since they can provide valuable information on the avian behavioral and breeding biology.