Status and Conservation
There has been a general decline in the number of Common Nighthawks in North America, but some population increases also have occurred in other geographical locations. The bird’s large range makes individual risk thresholds in specific regions difficult to establish.
The Common Nighthawk’s trait of being a ground nesting bird makes it particularly susceptible to predators some of which include domestic cats, ravens, snakes, dogs, coyotes, falcons and owls.
Lack of flat roofs, pesticides, increased predation and loss of habitat are noted factors of their decline. Further, unstudied potential causes of decline include climate change, disease, road kills, man-made towers (as an aerial hazard) and parasites.
The absence of flat roofs (made with gravel) in urban settings is an important cause of decline. In an effort to provide managed breeding areas, gravel pads have been added in the corners of rubberized roofs; this proves acceptable, as nesting has been observed.
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Painting by Robert W. Hines
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Nighthawk in Flight, Miami FL
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