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Eastern Whip-poor-will Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    Eastern Whip-poor-wills are medium-sized birds with a large, rounded head and a stout chest that tapers to a long tail and wings, giving them a distinctly front-heavy look.

    Relative Size

    Smaller than a Chuck-will’s-widow; about the size of a Common Nighthawk.

    Relative Sizebetween robin and crowbetween robin and crow

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 8.7-10.2 in (22-26 cm)
      • Weight: 1.5-2.3 oz (43-64 g)
      • Wingspan: 17.7-18.9 in (45-48 cm)