Nighthawk @ San Angelo SP Tx North Unit (1 Viewer)

[SanAngelo]

Shot yesterday, 28 May 2016, at San Angelo State Park Texas North Unit.

Need help sorting this out; Common or Lesser Nighthawk?

If you would, please point out what makes it one or the other.

Thank you.

 

[RJP]

This is a difficult separation to make on a perched bird. Based on the coarseness of the underside barring, and the fact that the bird is perched on a branch rather than the ground, my lean is to Common, but I would not bet the farm on it.

 

[SanAngelo]

This is a difficult separation to make on a perched bird. Based on the coarseness of the underside barring, and the fact that the bird is perched on a branch rather than the ground, my lean is to Common, but I would not bet the farm on it.

I spooked it while hiking. The bird was originally on the ground. It didn't appear to be comfortable after it perched. Never fully closed it's eyes, constantly scanning the sky whenever a bird soared overhead. Lot of vultures flying around.

 

[njlarsen]

Look here: http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?p=1820702

Niels

 

[Firebird5]

Regarding nighthawks, I saw several flying at dusk over Pemberton, BC, Canada in August 2010. I've always assumed that these must have been Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor), but would that necessarily be the case? Sorry, no photos.

Thanks,
Simon

 

[njlarsen]

Regarding nighthawks, I saw several flying at dusk over Pemberton, BC, Canada in August 2010. I've always assumed that these must have been Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor), but would that necessarily be the case? Sorry, no photos.

Thanks,
Simon

Almost certainly, the Lesser Nighthawk is limited to the southernmost states of the western US (and further south) and Antillean Nighthawk comes into the ABA area only in Florida.

Niels

 

[Firebird5]

Almost certainly, the Lesser Nighthawk is limited to the southernmost states of the western US (and further south) and Antillean Nighthawk comes into the ABA area only in Florida.

Thanks Niels