Nightjars, Nighthawks

Common Nighthawk, Chordeiles minor

Family Caprimulgidae (Nightjars, Nighthawks)

Size: 9"

Season: Summer

Habitat: Variety of habitats including forests, marshes, plains, urban areas

The common nighthawk is primarily nocturnal but may often be seen flying during the day and evening hours, catching insects on the wing with bounding flight. It is cryptically mottled gray, brown, and black, with strong barring on an otherwise pale underside. In the male a white breast band is evident. The tail is long and slightly notched, and the wings are long and pointed, extending past the tail in the perched bird. In flight there is a distinct white patch on both sides of the wings. During the day it is usually seen roosting on posts or branches with its eyes closed. Its voice is a short, nasal, buzzing sound. The adult male is illustrated.