The common nighthawk or bullbat is a medium-sized crepuscular or nocturnal bird of the Americas within the nightjar (Caprimulgidae) family, whose presence and identity are best revealed by its vocalization. Typically dark, displaying cryptic colouration and intricate patterns, this bird is difficult to spot with the naked eye during the day. This bird is most conspicuous when in its buoyant and erratic flight. The most remarkable feature of this aerial insectivore is its small beak that belies the massiveness of its mouth. Some claim appearance similarities to owls. 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. The males of this species may roost together but the bird is primarily solitary. The common nighthawk shows variability in territory size.
Region
Americas
Typical Environment
Occupies open and semi-open habitats including prairies, dunes, savannas, forest clearings, burns, and urban areas with flat gravel rooftops. Frequently forages over fields, lakeshores, rivers, parking lots, and roads where flying insects are abundant. During migration it can be found over a wide range of landscapes, often concentrating around lights. Wintering occurs primarily in northern and central South America, especially in open habitats and forest edges.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Common nighthawks are crepuscular aerial insectivores recognized by a bold white wing bar and an erratic, buoyant flight. Males perform dramatic courtship dives that create a loud booming sound produced by air rushing over their primaries. They often nest on flat gravel roofs or bare ground without constructing a traditional nest. This species migrates long distances between North American breeding grounds and South American wintering areas.
In flight showing characteristic white wing bars
Common nighthawk in British Columbia
Common nighthawk in flight, near Miami, Florida
Temperament
solitary and crepuscular
Flight Pattern
buoyant, erratic flight with quick wingbeats and glides
Social Behavior
Generally solitary or loosely associated, nesting singly on bare ground or flat gravel roofs without a built nest. Males display with steep dives that produce a wing-generated boom and chase intruders aggressively during breeding. Outside the breeding season they may form loose feeding or migratory groups and roost horizontally along branches or on flat surfaces.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Typical call is a nasal, repeated “peent” given in flight, especially at dusk. During courtship, males produce a dramatic non-vocal booming rush from the wings during dive displays, often followed by soft churring notes.
