Common Pauraque
NameCommon Pauraque
Common NameCommon Pauraque
Scientific NameNyctidromus albicollis
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)49
Length (cm)29.5
Weight (g)75
Plumage DetailsMottled brown, gray, and black plumage with intricate patterns of streaks and vermiculations, providing excellent camouflage. Males typically have prominent white patches on the outer tail feathers and a white throat band, while females have buffier tail patches.
Vocalization / CallIts distinctive call is a loud, whistled 'wheer-you-wheer-you-wheer' or 'pauraque-pauraque-pauraque', often repeated.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from southern Texas and Mexico, through Central America, and south to northern Argentina and Uruguay.
Identifying Featurescryptic mottled plumage, large dark eyes, long tail with white patches (especially males), nocturnal habits, distinctive 'pauraque' call
Description
The Common Pauraque is a nocturnal nightjar known for its superb camouflage, blending seamlessly with its surroundings during the day. It has large eyes and a relatively long tail, often seen resting on the ground or low perches.
