This forest nightjar ranges from southern Central America across much of central South America east of the Andes. A study in Misiones recorded it in the lower forest layer and documented nests with one or two eggs.
Males are generally grayer brown above and below; females are paler and more rufous. Both sexes have a white band across the upper breast and conspicuous white spots on the belly.
At one nest observed in Cruce Caballero Provincial Park, Misiones, the clutch held two eggs and incubation was estimated at 17–18 days. The female incubated and cared for the young by day; a male took an incubation turn at night.
An extinction-risk assessment has not been added yet.