Common Poorwill

Common Poorwill

Phalaenoptilus nuttallii · Nightjars and Nighthawks

The Common Poorwill is a small, nocturnal bird known for its distinctive, whistled "poor-will" call. It is the only bird known to truly hibernate, entering a state of torpor to conserve energy during cold periods. Its cryptic plumage provides excellent camouflage against the ground and tree bark.

Migrant21-23 cmWhistled songInsects
34 calls·first heard May 28·last 49d ago
When it's heardpeak 7a · summer
5a12p9p
How to know it
  • Small, mottled gray-brown nightjar.
  • Often seen resting on the ground or low branches.
  • Distinctive "poor-will" call at dusk and dawn.

Often heard alongside

Birds Heard
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