The Lesser Nighthawk (Chordeiles acutipennis) is a nightjar found throughout a large part of the Americas.
The adults are dark with brown, grey and white patterning on the upperparts and breast; the long upperwings are black and show a white bar in flight. The tail is dark with white barring. This bird looks similar to the Common Nighthawk, but is slightly smaller, has a slightly less deeply forked tail, and is more buffy in coloration. The calls are also completely different. The Lesser Nighthawk has a rapid, low whistled melodious trill, lasting several seconds. It is usually heard only near breeding areas.
This bird was photographed at Hacienda Solimar. It is one of the man birds I would never have seen without the guide’s (Johan) help. It was almost invisible on a high branch.
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