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Chuck-will's-widow

Caprimulgus carolinensis ORDER: CAPRIMULGIFORMES FAMILY: CAPRIMULGIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

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Chuck-will

© Richard Bird / CLO

A large nightjar of the southeastern United States, the Chuck-will's-widow is well known for its continous singing of its name at dusk.

Inside Birding
For complete information on this species, visit The Birds of North America Online.

Appearance

Owl-like
Owl-like
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Medium-sized to large nocturnal bird.
  • Large-headed with a tiny bill.
  • Tiny feet (rarely seen).
  • Very well camouflaged, colored in browns, black, and gray.
  • In flight, long, rounded wings.
  • Long, rounded tail.
  • Brown throat.

Immature Description

Similar to adult female.

Range Map Help

Chuck-will
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Similar Species

  • Whip-poor-will smaller and less brown, with a black, not brown throat.