White-tailed Nightjar
NameWhite-tailed Nightjar
Common NameWhite-tailed Nightjar
Scientific NameHydropsalis cayennensis
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)47.5
Length (cm)22.5
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is a complex pattern of browns, grays, and buffs, heavily streaked and mottled, providing excellent camouflage. Males display prominent white patches on the outer tail feathers, while females have less conspicuous or absent white. A white throat patch is often present.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive, repetitive series of clear, whistled notes, often described as 'whip-poor-will-whip-whip-whip' or 'chip-chip-chip-WHEEE-WHEEE-WHEEE'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across Central and South America, from Costa Rica south through Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, and northern Brazil, extending to some Caribbean islands.
Identifying Featurescryptic camouflage plumage, nocturnal activity, long, pointed wings, males with white outer tail feathers, distinctive whistled call, large eyes and small bill with wide gape
Description
This nocturnal bird is known for its cryptic plumage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. It perches horizontally on branches or on the ground during the day, becoming active at dusk to hunt insects in flight.
