Common Nighthawk vs Blue-tailed Emerald

The Common Nighthawk and Blue-tailed Emerald are easily distinguished by their structure and behavior. The Common Nighthawk is a nightjar with long wings and a distinctive white wing bar, while the Blue-tailed Emerald is a small, iridescent hummingbird with a vibrant blue tail.

Look for the white wing bar on the Common Nighthawk during flight. Note the iridescent plumage and blue tail of the Blue-tailed Emerald when perched or feeding.

The Common Nighthawk is significantly larger than the Blue-tailed Emerald.

The Common Nighthawk has cryptic, mottled plumage with a prominent white wing bar. The Blue-tailed Emerald is bright and iridescent with a notable blue tail.

Common Nighthawks are often seen flying at dusk or dawn, catching insects in flight. Blue-tailed Emeralds are typically seen hovering near flowers during the day.