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Lesser Nighthawk Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    Lesser Nighthawks are small nighthawks with rounded wings and a fairly long, notched tail. In flight they look long and slim, but when perched they look rather full-bodied with a small, flat head. They have a very small, thin bill that is nearly invisible and tiny legs.

    Relative Size

    Larger than a Violet-green Swallow, smaller than a Barn Owl.

    Relative Sizebetween robin and crowbetween robin and crow

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 7.9-9.1 in (20-23 cm)
      • Weight: 1.6-1.8 oz (45-50 g)
      • Wingspan: 21.6 in (55 cm)

    Shape of the Lesser Nighthawk© Brian Sullivan / Macaulay Library