The least poorwill or least pauraque is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae, and the only confirmed extant species of its genus. It is endemic to the island of Hispaniola, which is shared by the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
Region
Hispaniola, Greater Antilles
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in dry to semi-arid habitats across Hispaniola, including thorn scrub, dry broadleaf woodland, and limestone karst with sparse understory. Prefers areas with open ground and leaf litter for roosting and foraging, often near forest edges, tracks, and clearings. It can also be found in mixed woodland-mosaic landscapes and locally in foothill slopes. Dense, humid forests are generally avoided.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the least pauraque, it is the only confirmed extant member of the genus Siphonorhis. This small nightjar is highly cryptic, roosting on leaf litter by day and relying on camouflage to avoid detection. It is nocturnal and easily overlooked, often detected only by its soft, repetitive calls at dusk. Habitat loss and introduced predators are key threats on Hispaniola.
Temperament
secretive and crepuscular
Flight Pattern
short, silent fluttering with low buoyant passes
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary outside the breeding period. Nests directly on the ground, usually laying one to two eggs on leaf litter without a built nest. Both parents participate in incubation and chick care, relying on camouflage and stillness to avoid predators. Displays and calling intensify at dusk during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, repetitive series of whistles and low trills delivered at dusk and during the night. Calls often carry only a short distance and can be easily masked by insect sounds. When disturbed, it may give a quiet churring note as it flushes.
