Common Poorwill
Phalaenoptilus nuttallii
This is the smallest North American nightjar, about 18 centimetres (7.1 in) in length, with a wingspan of approximately 30 centimetres (12 in). It weighs 36–58 grams (1.3–2.0 oz). The sexes are similar, both gray and black patterned above. The outer tail-feathers are tipped with white, the markings slightly more prominent in the male. The common poorwill is told from similar nightjars by its small size, short bill, rounded wings with tips that reach the end of the short tail at rest, and pale gray coloration.
ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Savanna Nightjar
Caprimulgus affinis
The savanna nightjar measures 20-26cm in length, has a body weight of 54-110g, and a wingspan of 64cm, with size varying by subspecies, ranging from small to medium-large. Like other nightjars, they have long pointed wings and small legs and feet, indicating their reliance on flight over walking. The bill is wide, revealing a large gape when opened, and is surrounded by facial feathers, called rictal bristles. Their vermiculated grey-brown plumage, characteristic of all nightjars, makes them difficult to tell apart from other species based on sight alone. Voice: Savanna nightjars begin vocalisation during early dusk and can be heard throughout the night until dawn, becoming especially vocal during breeding. The characteristic "chwip" call is used for both marking territory and attracting females during breeding season. Females vocalise less, emitting soft squeaks during brooding.
ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Play today's Daily BirdPhotos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Common Poorwill and Savanna Nightjar.