Two days ago, I photographed my first Common Nighthawk in Oklahoma at Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge. I found three nighthawks there in the trees in total.
Resting Common Nighthawk at Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge – Nikon D500, f8, 1/800, ISO 1250, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The other two Common Nighthawks that I found were too far away, and there were branches in front of them. The photos I took of them were simply documentary shots.
This nighthawk was close to the edge of the road and they actually raised their head and opened their eyes. During the day, these nighthawks are often found resting on branches in trees. I know that once I find one, there are usually more around. Common Nighthawks perch parallel to branches, and to my eyes, they are a “lump” on a branch that stands out.
Sandy Creek Bridge view at Tishomingo NWR – Nikon D810, f9, 1/80, ISO 500, Nikkor 18-200mm VR at 18mm, natural light
I found the nighthawks in the Sandy Creek bridge area of the refuge, on both sides of the bridge.
All of the nighthawks I saw were resting in willow trees. I believe they are Black Willows, Salix nigra, but I am not 100% certain of that.
Morning view from Sandy Creek Bridge – Nikon D810, f9, 1/80, ISO 500, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 18-200mm VR at 18mm, natural light
Common Nighthawks do fly during the day, not just at dawn and dusk. I’ve seen them on the wing in Utah and Idaho, flying and catching insects in the air.
I was tickled to find the nighthawks at the refuge. I hope that I’ll see more of them in the coming weeks while they are here to breed and raise their young. Maybe I’ll even find one of their young!
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Common Nighthawk photos plus facts and information about this species.
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