The short-tailed nighthawk is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae. It is found in Mexico, in every Central American country except El Salvador, in Trinidad and Tobago, and in every mainland South American country except Chile and Uruguay.
Region
Neotropics
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Mexico through most of Central America (except El Salvador), Trinidad and Tobago, and widely across South America except Chile and Uruguay. Favors lowland and foothill evergreen forests, tall secondary growth, river corridors, and forest edges. Commonly hunts above the canopy and along open waterways or clearings where flying insects concentrate. Roosts by day in the midstory or canopy on horizontal branches. Tolerates some habitat mosaic but declines with extensive forest loss.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A crepuscular nightjar, the short-tailed nighthawk hunts high over forest canopies with buoyant, bat-like flight. Its huge gape helps it net flying insects in the dark, often near rivers, clearings, or lights. The species is distinguished by a very short tail and long, pointed wings, creating a distinctive silhouette at dusk. It typically perches crosswise on branches and is most active around twilight and into the night.
Illustration by David William Mitchell from George Robert Gray's Genera of Birds 1844–1849
Temperament
solitary and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
agile flier with buoyant, rapid wingbeats and short glides
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs; may forage in loose proximity to others where insects are abundant. Nests on the ground or flat surfaces with minimal nest structure, typically laying a single egg. Breeding timing varies across its range, aligning with local rainy seasons and insect peaks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft and understated, including low trills and rolling purrs given at dusk. Also emits sharp chips and squeaks while foraging over the canopy.
