Common Nighthawk vs Common Pauraque

In short

The Common Nighthawk and Common Pauraque are both nightjars, but they can be distinguished by their wing shape and vocalizations. The Common Nighthawk has pointed wings with a white bar near the wingtips, while the Common Pauraque has rounded wings and a long, rounded tail with white in the rectrices. Vocalizations also differ significantly, with the Pauraque's distinctive 'hip-hip-hooray' call being a key identifier.

Identification tips

• Look for the wing shape: Common Nighthawk has pointed wings with a white bar; Common Pauraque has rounded wings.
• Tail shape: Common Pauraque has a long, rounded tail with white in the rectrices.
• Vocalization: Listen for the Pauraque's 'hip-hip-hooray' call.
• Behavior: Nighthawks are more aerial; Pauraques are more terrestrial.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Common Pauraque tends to have a longer tail.

Plumage

The Common Nighthawk has pointed wings with a white bar across the primaries, while the Common Pauraque has rounded wings and a long tail with substantial white in the rectrices. The Pauraque's plumage is an intricate pattern of browns, buffs, grays, and blacks.

Behaviour

The Common Nighthawk is more aerial, often seen flying at dusk, while the Common Pauraque is more terrestrial and crepuscular, foraging on the ground.

Habitat

Common Nighthawks are often found in open areas like fields and urban settings, whereas Common Pauraques are more associated with tropical lowlands and forest edges.

Voice

The Common Nighthawk's call is a nasal 'peent', while the Common Pauraque is known for its 'hip-hip-hooray' song, which is a quintessential sound of the tropical lowlands.