Date: 6/9/25 12:49 pm From: Andy Smith (via carolinabirds Mailing List) <carolinabirds...> Subject: Re: Chuck-will's-widow Video
Kudos, Michael! Absolutely remarkable.
How are these nestlings not gobbled up by predators? Is it really just a matter of good camouflage?
Again, great sleuthing and camera work.
-Andy
________________________________
From: <carolinabirds-request...> <carolinabirds-request...> on behalf of Michael Fogleman <carolinabirds...>
Sent: Monday, June 9, 2025 3:03 PM
To: Carolinabirds Listserve <carolinabirds...>
Subject: Re: Chuck-will's-widow Video
The list serve seems to break the URL for some folks. You might have to just copy and paste the URL into your browser.
Or you can search for the video title on YouTube: Chuck-will's-widow Nestlings Emerge at Dusk
Michael
On Mon, Jun 9, 2025 at 2:26 PM Michael Fogleman <fogleman...><mailto:<fogleman...>> wrote:
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.
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!
