Eastern Whip-poor-will
Eastern Whip-poor-will Information
Length: 9 - 10"
Breeding Habitat: Open deciduous or mixed woodlands, especially young second-growth forests. Prefers fairly dry woods near fields or other open areas.
Diet: Night-flying insects, including moths,
mosquitoes, and flying beetles; some non-flying
insects such as grasshoppers, ants, and crickets.
The song of the Eastern Whip-poor-will
Identification tips for Eastern Whip-poor-will
Additional Information
Eastern Whip-poor-willHabitat, feeding behavior, nesting, migration, and conservation status. Includes range map and the songs and calls of this bird. (From Audubon)
Eastern Whip-poor-will
Breeding Bird Survey Map,
2011-2015
(Image credit: USGS)
Range in New England
The Eastern Whip-poor-will breeds locally throughout New England, excluding parts of northwestern Maine.
In the fall, this bird migrates to Florida, Mexico, and Central America. It can also be found wintering along the Gulf Coast of the U.S.
Winter Sightings Map from eBird
Sightings of the Eastern Whip-poor-will
Dec-Feb over past 10 years
(2009-2019)
Christmas Bird Count Map
Historical CBC Map from USGS