Pauraque Nighthawk ( Nyctidromus albicollis )
- Sent by Rodrigo Girardi Santiago - 16/12/2006
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30cm
Members of the Caprimulgidae family are very difficult to tell apart. The best clues to recognize the Pauraque are its very typical song and the fact that it is one of the few nighthawks to get so close to urban areas.
The Pauraque spends the whole day quietly sat on the ground, so well camouflaged that it is almost impossible to see. It remains quiet when approached, but when you are too close the bird flies in a fast zig-zag, and lands few meters away. It is curious to notice that even landing close it is difficult to see.
The eggs are laid directly on the ground and have an earthy color.
The Pauraque can be easily seen on dirt tracks at night, when its eyes reflect the cars’ headlights.
