Common Nighthawk
Chordeiles minor
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<birdfyi-bird slug="chordeiles-minor"></birdfyi-bird>About
A medium Caprimulgidae nighthawk (~72 g) widespread across North America, wintering in South America. Characterised by white wing patches conspicuous in erratic aerial flight. Breeds on flat gravel rooftops and open ground. Highly aerial; catches flying insects at dusk and night. Least Concern despite urban declines.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 38.6 cm | 15.2 in |
| Weight | 71.75 g | 2.53 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Brown and grey mottled above; white throat in male; white and dark barred underparts; distinctive white wing bar across primaries positioned more centrally than in Lesser Nighthawk; white tail band in male.
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Breeds across North America from Alaska to the Gulf Coast; long-distance migrant wintering in South America south to Argentina.
Diet & Feeding
Aerial insectivore; catches flying beetles, ants, moths, and flies in fast aerial pursuit over open habitats.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: NO. Incubation: 16-20 days. Fledging: 25-30 days.
Clutch Size
1-2
Sound
Song
Loud, nasal 'peent' call repeated in flight; display dive produces loud booming 'whomp' with wings; churring trill on breeding grounds; colonial roost cacophony
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes (Nightjars & Swifts) |
| Family | Caprimulgidae (Nightjars) |
| Genus | Chordeiles |
| Species | Chordeiles minor |
Distribution
Common Nighthawk has been recorded in 5 countries.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Common Nighthawk eat?
Where does the Common Nighthawk live?
Is the Common Nighthawk endangered?
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What order and family does the Common Nighthawk belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Caprimulgidae family