The family name Goatsucker comes from folk tales that these wide-mouthed birds suck milk from goats at night (in Latin caper means goat and mulgeo means to milk or suck). The more dignified family name is Nightjar.
Common nighthawks make a nasal peent call as they forage or display while flying at dusk or near dawn. They also call from the ground. (Franklin County, New York.)
Habitat: Nests in logged or open forests, clearings, fields, and on flat gravel rooftops.
Whip-poor-wills are most active at night. During the breeding season a whip-poor-will male calls its name over and over and over, especially on bright moonlit nights. A calling bout can last for a few seconds (as here) or for many minutes. Although the 'whip-poor-will' phrases are easily heard from a distance, the opening cluck can only be heard when the bird is nearby. Birds call from the ground or from exposed perches. The call apparently is used to attract a mate and defend territory. (Albany County, New York.)
Habitat: Open dry woodlands with little understory and nearby open foraging areas.
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