Date: 6/9/25 11:27 am
From: Michael Fogleman (via carolinabirds Mailing List) <carolinabirds...>
Subject: Chuck-will's-widow Video
Hello friends,

I recently discovered a Chuck-will's-widow nest on the Harris Lake Game
Lands in New Hill, NC with the use of a thermal scope. I first determined
where the male was singing at dusk to figure out roughly where to look. I
also did some research on their habitat preferences. Still, it took
multiple days of methodical searching with the scope to find anything. But
I ultimately found two separate nesting pairs in different areas. I also
found one of the males roosting on a few occasions. One nesting pair was a
couple weeks ahead of the other in terms of development. The first was
still incubating when I found it while the second had fairly large
nestlings by the time I found them. I tried the same thing last year with
an Eastern Whip-poor-will but had no success.

The most exciting part was capturing video of nestlings when they became
active at dusk. Lots of interesting behavior. So I wanted to share this
video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1htsf__yZF8

I believe the nestlings are just a day or two old in this video. I captured
the video from behind camo cover, using a 135mm f/1.8 lens for a good
balance between focal length and light-gathering abilities. I have lots of
photos to share too, perhaps I'll add them to an eBird checklist soon.

I'm often asked what my favorite bird is. I think I finally have an answer!

Happy birding!

Michael Fogleman
Cary, NC

 
Join us on Facebook!