Chuck-will's-widow vs Eastern Whip-poor-will

The Chuck-will's-widow is larger and more robust compared to the more slender Eastern Whip-poor-will. Both species are nocturnal and cryptic, but their vocalizations are distinct, with the Chuck-will's-widow having a more guttural call. Observing their size and listening for their calls are key to distinguishing them.

1. Size: Look for the larger size of the Chuck-will's-widow. 2. Call: Listen for the guttural call of the Chuck-will's-widow versus the emphatic 'WHIP-poor-WILL' of the Eastern Whip-poor-will. 3. Habitat: Consider the habitat; open areas may indicate Chuck-will's-widow, while dense woodlands suggest Eastern Whip-poor-will.

The Chuck-will's-widow is noticeably larger and bulkier than the Eastern Whip-poor-will.

Both species have cryptic plumage with mottled browns and grays, making them difficult to distinguish by color alone. The Chuck-will's-widow may appear slightly more rufous.

Both are nocturnal and forage at dawn and dusk. The Chuck-will's-widow is more likely to be seen foraging on the ground under street lamps during molt.

The Chuck-will's-widow is more often found in open areas, while the Eastern Whip-poor-will prefers large woodland territories.

The Chuck-will's-widow has a distinctive, guttural call, while the Eastern Whip-poor-will's call is the emphatic 'WHIP-poor-WILL'.