The Common Poorwill is unique among all birds. It actually goes into an extended form of hybernation for weeks or even months. It lives throughout most of western and central North America south to northern Mexico. The winter torpor activity has been documented in California and New Mexico.
The Common Poorwill is typical of the Nightjars in being nocturnal and feeding mainly on insects.
Classification
Order: Caprimulgiformes
Family: Caprimulgidae
Genus: Phalaenoptilus
Species: P. nuttallii
Photos:
Common Poorwill
We saw 4-6 Poorwills right on the road. We almost ran over one! This was my first time seeing them in Spokane County. They are such neat birds! Valley Rd, NW Spokane County, Washington 7/6/2006
Common Poor-will
