European Nightjar Balances Long‑Distance Migration with Agile Insect Hunting, Generates Upward Thrust

Scientists have discovered that the European nightjar, a migratory bird covering thousands of kilometers each year, has evolved wings that prioritize insect‑hunting agility over high‑speed flight efficiency. The bird’s wing design allows it to generate thrust during the upward stroke of its wingbeat—a rare aerodynamic feature that enables rapid, precise maneuvers while catching insects. This trade‑off means the nightjar sacrifices some long‑range speed to maintain the agility needed for nocturnal foraging. The upward‑beat thrust mechanism could inform the design of future lightweight, energy‑efficient aircraft or drones that require rapid, controlled flight.