Eastern Whip-poor-will
NameEastern Whip-poor-will
Common NameEastern Whip-poor-will
Scientific NameAntrostomus vociferus
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)47.5
Length (cm)24.5
Weight (g)53
Plumage DetailsMottled brown, gray, black, and buff plumage provides excellent camouflage against bark and leaf litter. Males have prominent white patches on the outer tail feathers and a white throat band, while females have buffy patches and a buffy throat band. The undertail often shows rufous or orange barring.
Vocalization / CallIts distinctive and repetitive call sounds like 'whip-poor-will,' often repeated many times in succession, especially during the night.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeBreeds across eastern and central North America, from southeastern Canada south through the eastern United States. Winters in the southeastern U.S., Mexico, and Central America.
Identifying FeaturesExcellent camouflage (mottled brown/gray plumage), Large head with large, dark eyes and a tiny bill surrounded by long rictal bristles, Nocturnal activity, often resting horizontally on branches during the day, Distinctive, repetitive 'whip-poor-will' call, Males have white patches on outer tail feathers and a white throat band
Description
The Eastern Whip-poor-will is a nocturnal bird renowned for its superb camouflage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with tree bark and leaf litter. It is most active at dusk and dawn, primarily catching insects in flight.
