The Common Poorwill is the only North American bird known to enter true hibernation (torpor lasting weeks to months), using this strategy to survive cold winters in the western deserts when insects are unavailable. Its Hopi name 'Holchko' means 'the sleeping one.' It is a small, round-headed nightjar whose simple 'poor-will' call rises on the second syllable.
Best time to see a Common Poorwill
The best time to see a Common Poorwill is April–August, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 3,190 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Recent Common Poorwill sightings near you
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