Region

Southwestern United States, Mexico, and northern Central America

Typical Environment

This species inhabits montane pine-oak and mixed conifer forests, canyons, and wooded foothills, often near edges and clearings. It favors areas with open understory and scattered openings for foraging flights. In the southwestern U.S., it breeds in sky island ranges and adjacent woodlands. Farther south in Mexico and Guatemala, it is more widespread in highland forests and adjacent scrub.

Altitude Range

600–3000 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Temperament

secretive and crepuscular

Flight Pattern

buoyant, silent flight with short rapid wingbeats and agile sallies

Social Behavior

Mostly solitary or in pairs during the breeding season. Nests directly on leaf litter without a constructed nest, typically laying two eggs. Both adults participate in care, with the female incubating more and the male singing and defending a territory.

Migratory Pattern

Partial migrant

Song Description

Delivers a rhythmic, three-part call reminiscent of its name, repeated persistently at dusk and through the night. Males often sing from low perches or the ground, sometimes accelerating or adding introductory notes during displays.

Diet

An aerial insectivore that targets moths, beetles, and other flying insects. It launches from the ground or low perches to capture prey with its oversized gape. Foraging often concentrates along forest edges, trails, and roads where insects congregate. It may exploit moonlit nights when prey activity is high.

Preferred Environment

Feeds along edges of pine-oak forests, in clearings, and over riparian corridors where flight space is open. Frequently forages along roadsides and canyon openings at night.