Nightjars are cryptic heathland birds that have declined due to habitat loss. Conservation of their heathland habitat supports population recovery.
Nightjar eggs and chicks trampled or disturbed suffer directly. Adults subjected to disturbance at night abandon nests, particularly if dogs or people approach roosting or nesting sites. Conservation that maintains and creates suitable heathland habitat improves welfare for nightjars and the many other heathland species sharing the habitat.