The largest nightjar in North America, famous for its haunting nighttime song echoing across Texas cedar brakes and oak ravines throughout spring and summer.
Field Identification: Cryptic leaf-patterned brown plumage. Short bill opening into an immense mouth lined with long facial bristles. Distinctive 4-note nocturnal chant.
Texas & Hill Country Notes: Their wide gapes allow them to swallow small songbirds, bats, and giant moths whole in mid-air during night hunts. If their nest site on the forest floor is disturbed, females can carry their eggs or chicks in their mouth to a safer location.
