![]() The term "nighthawk", first recorded in the King James Version of 1611, was originally a local name in England for the European nightjar. The specific minor is Latin for "smaller". The genus name Chordeiles is from Ancient Greek khoreia, a dance with music, and deile, "evening". In flight showing characteristic white wing bars The common nighthawk measures 22 to 25 cm (8.7 to 9.8 in) long, displays a wing span of 51 to 61 cm (20 to 24 in) weighs 55 to 98 g (1.9 to 3.5 oz), and has a life span of 4 to 5 years. There is noticeable barring on the sides and abdomen, also white wing-patches. The common nighthawk has long slender wings that at rest extend beyond a notched tail. This caprimulgid has a large, flattened head with large eyes facially it lacks rictal bristles. The common nighthawk shows variability in territory size. The males of this species may roost together but the bird is primarily solitary. With its horizontal stance and short legs, the common nighthawk does not travel frequently on the ground, instead preferring to perch horizontally, parallel to branches, on posts, on the ground or on a roof. ![]() Some claim appearance similarities to owls. ![]() ![]() The most remarkable feature of this aerial insectivore is its small beak that belies the massiveness of its mouth. This bird is most conspicuous when in its buoyant and erratic flight. Typically dark (gray, black and brown), displaying cryptic colouration and intricate patterns, this bird is difficult to spot with the naked eye during the day. The common nighthawk ( Chordeiles minor) is a medium-sized crepuscular or nocturnal bird of the Americas within the nightjar family, whose presence and identity are best revealed by its vocalization. ![]()
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