Common Poorwill
Phalaenoptilus nuttallii · Nightjars and Nighthawks
The Common Poorwill is the smallest nightjar in North America, renowned for its exceptional camouflage and nocturnal habits. This bird is unique among its avian relatives for its ability to enter extended periods of torpor, a state akin to hibernation, to conserve energy during harsh conditions or food scarcity. Its mottled plumage allows it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings during daylight hours.
Explore the full field guideNocturnalMigratoryInsectivorousTorpid
100 calls·first heard Jun 26·last 14d ago
When it's heardpeak 4a · fall
5a12p9p
How to know it
- Mottled gray-brown with intricate patterns, providing excellent camouflage against the ground.
- A neat white band across the lower throat is often visible.
- Smallest North American nightjar with a flat head, short bill, rounded wings, and a short tail.
- Outer tail feathers are tipped with white, more prominent in males.