The Whip-poor-will, Caprimulgus vociferus, is a medium-sized (22-27 cm) nightjar. The Whip-poor-will is commonly heard but seldom seen; the name imitates this bird's call.

Appearance

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Adults have mottled plumage: the upperparts are grey, black and brown; the lower parts are grey and black. They have a very short bill and a black throat. Males have a white patch below the throat and white tips on the outer tail feathers; in the female, these parts are light brown.

Behavior

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The Whip-poor-will's breeding habitat is deciduous or mixed woods across southeastern Canada, eastern and southwestern United States, and Central America. They nest on the ground, in shaded locations, among dead leaves, and usually lay two creamy eggs. This bird does not normally flush from the nest unless it is underfoot.

Northern birds migrate to the southeastern United States and south to Central America. Central American races are largely resident. These birds forage at night, catching insects in flight. They normally sleep during the day.

References

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• Database entry includes justification for why this species is of least concern

Whippoorwill

Caprimulgus | Avifauna of North America | Avifauna of Eastern United States | Avifauna of Eastern Canada | Avifauna of Central Mexico | Avifauna of Eastern Mexico