Common Poorwill Photo Gallery
Adult
A small, flat-headed nightjar with a short tail. White band marks the throat, but it is often difficult to see on roosting birds.
© Jacob Drucker / Macaulay LibraryWashington, June 05, 2019Adult
Typically roosts on the ground, where camouflaged plumage can make it very difficult to see.
© Bruce Cyganowski / Macaulay LibraryColorado, October 05, 2015Adult
A small, densely camouflaged nightjar with a neat white band on the throat. Often roosts on the ground during the daytime.
© Russell Campbell / Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, October 27, 2023Not all videos have soundAdult male
In flight, male's white tail tips are visible. Tail tips on females are buffy and not as obvious. Note short tail.
© Chris Wood / Macaulay LibraryColorado, October 03, 2015Adult
Typically roosts on the ground or among rocks. Note thin white neck band.
© David M. Bell / Macaulay LibraryBritish Columbia, June 30, 2020Adult male
During the breeding season, the male sings a repeated, whistled poorwillip at night.
© Steven Mlodinow / Macaulay LibraryColorado, May 18, 2014Habitat
Inhabits mostly shrubby, open areas in dry environments.
© Heather Campbell / Macaulay LibraryUtah, October 04, 2020Compare with Similar Species
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Species in This Family
Nightjars and Allies(Order: Caprimulgiformes, Family: Caprimulgidae)
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