ML618171304

Age

Not specified

Sex

Not specified

Observation details

NOTES 05/09/24: I am updating my classification from "Nightjar Sp." to Eastern Whip-poor-will. After doing research and consulting with experts, I believe we can rule out Chuck-Will’s Widow. I am adding additional observation details and notes below. I observed the nightjar flush from the ground and fully spread its wings and tail, showing its back. I noted light coloration on the outer edges of the tail (appeared white in direct sun). The nightjar was medium in size and not extremely lanky. The proportions were longer across the shoulder (secondary area) with a tapering wing (primary area). The head was not especially large with minimal projection. Two years ago I had a very similar close encounter with a Chuck-will's-widow. That bird was much larger and lankier. On the Chuck, the primary area of the wing was much longer, similar in length or longer, than the shoulder (secondary area). The bird had a very "elbowy" long-arm appearance. The head was oversized and muppet-like. The coloration of the Chuck was a much redder/rustier brown. The 2024 bird was more of a coffee-brown (in direct sun). I sent my photos to an expert (without notes) and they identified the bird as follows: “Female whip-poor-will…Small head, dainty build, rufous edging on tail.” Based on overall size, proportions, and tail edge coloration, I am confident in classifying the 2024 bird as an Eastern Whip-poor-will. ORIGINAL NOTES 04/29/24: Flushed from ground. Briefly landed in spruce. Took a few photos, before the bird decided to depart. Could not relocate. Reddish-brown in flight. Boomerang shaped. Chuck or whip. Image.

Technical information

Model

Canon EOS R7

Lens

RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM

ISO

4000

Focal length

400 mm

Flash

Flash did not fire

f-stop

f/8.0

Shutter speed

1/1250 sec

Dimensions

1731 pixels x 1354 pixels

Original file size

1.98 MB