About the Project

The ZooTrophy Animal-a-Day project began on October 15th, 2013 as illustrator Angela "LemurKat" Oliver began working her way, systematically but selectively, through the alphabet and presenting, via social media, an illustrated animal to the world. Daily.

All pieces are drawn as 2.5 x 3.5 inch collectible cards, using a combination of polychromos and prismacolor pencils, along with other art materials. Many are still available for purchase ($10) or trade, so drop her an email if anything captures your eye or if there is an animal you wish to request.

It is predicted this project will take her at least two years to complete - with approximately 36 animals being drawn for each letter. She has also used the images to create a collectible hardback encyclopedia series, playing cards and a desk calendar, as well as the ZooTrophy collectible trading card game.

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Creature Feature #507: Nightjar

The nightjar are nocturnal birds, related to frogmouths and oilbirds. He is characterised by his long wings, short legs and short bill. At night, he takes to the air to forage for moths and other flying insects. During the day he relies on his cryptic colouration to stay hidden and some species even lie along the perch instead of across it, thus blending in even further with the bark. Some of these birds are so well camouflaged that scientists are unable to confirm whether they are locally common or extinct. Nightjar nest on the ground, laying a spotted egg amongst the leaf litter.

Some, like this Great Eared-Nightjar, sport characteristic tufted "ears", whereas other species have extremely long tails (the long-trained nightjar) or trailing plumes on their wings.

The Great Eared-Nightjar is classified as "least concern". He inhabits Southeast Asia.

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