Common Pauraque vs Scrub Nightjar

In short

The Common Pauraque and Scrub Nightjar are both nightjars with intricate plumage patterns, but they can be distinguished by tail markings and vocalizations. The Common Pauraque has a long, rounded tail with substantial white in the rectrices, while the Scrub Nightjar has extensive white stripes along the inner webs of the outer rectrices. Their songs also differ, with the Pauraque's being more complex.

Identification tips

1. Look for the long, rounded tail with white in the rectrices on the Common Pauraque. 2. Observe the extensive white stripes on the outer rectrices of the Scrub Nightjar. 3. Listen for the breezy, complex song of the Common Pauraque compared to the clear whistled song of the Scrub Nightjar. 4. Consider habitat: Common Pauraque is more widespread, while Scrub Nightjar is localized to specific regions in Ecuador and Peru.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of nightjars, but the Common Pauraque is generally considered larger.

Plumage

The Common Pauraque has a long, rounded tail with substantial white in the rectrices, while the Scrub Nightjar features extensive white stripes along the inner webs of the outer rectrices. Both have intricate patterns of browns, buffs, grays, and blacks.

Behaviour

Both species are crepuscular and terrestrial, foraging on the ground. The Common Pauraque is particularly known for its terrestrial foraging habits.

Habitat

The Common Pauraque is widespread in tropical lowlands of Central and South America, while the Scrub Nightjar is found in southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru, often in scrubby habitats.

Voice

The Common Pauraque's song is a breezy 'hip-hip hip-hip hip-hip-hooray,' while the Scrub Nightjar has a short, clear whistled song. The Pauraque's song is more complex and distinctive.