Chuck-will's-widow
NameChuck-will's-widow
Common NameChuck-will's-widow
Scientific NameAntrostomus carolinensis
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)63
Length (cm)30.5
Weight (g)144
Plumage DetailsPlumage is cryptically patterned with a complex mix of mottled browns, grays, black, and buff, providing excellent camouflage. Males typically have small white patches on the outer tail feathers and a white throat band, while females have buffier markings.
Vocalization / CallIts distinctive and repetitive call, which gives the bird its name, is a loud, whistled 'chuck-will's-WID-ow', often repeated for extended periods, especially at night.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across the southeastern United States, from the mid-Atlantic states west to Oklahoma and south to Florida. Winters in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central and northern South America.
Identifying FeaturesCryptic mottled brown plumage, Large head with a short, wide bill and prominent rictal bristles, Distinctive 'chuck-will's-WID-ow' call, Nocturnal habits, Relatively large size for a nightjar
Description
The Chuck-will's-widow is a large nocturnal nightjar known for its superb camouflage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with tree bark and leaf litter. It is primarily active at dusk and dawn, hunting large insects in flight with its wide mouth.
