Chuck-will's-widow

The chuck-will's-widow (Antrostomus carolinensis) is a large nocturnal bird of the nightjar family, Caprimulgidae. Found primarily in the southeastern United States, it's known for its distinctive, echoing call, which sounds like "chuck-will's-widow," given repeatedly at night, typically during breeding season. This camouflage expert, characterized by its mottled brown, grey, and buff plumage, hunts insects like moths and beetles. It is mostly active during twilight and night. They nest on the ground, relying on their camouflage to protect their eggs and young.

Chuck-will's-widow meaning with examples

• The stillness of the Southern night was broken by the insistent call of the chuck-will's-widow, a sound that always signaled the approach of twilight. This specific night's call carried clearly across the moonlit fields, a sound familiar to generations of residents. The locals knew its meaning: warm nights, love was in the air, and the insects were active. Its familiar call felt nostalgic and comforting.
• As dusk deepened, the forest echoed with the distinctive "chuck-will's-widow" call, a clear indication that the elusive bird was beginning its nightly hunt. The call, once heard, was never forgotten and always recognized. Listeners paused to hear the call, then the forest became quieter, and the familiar song started again. No flash of color, only the voice echoing amongst the trees.
• Camping under the vast expanse of the starry sky, the repetitive call of the chuck-will's-widow filled the quiet night. The sound vibrated the air. The campers tried to fall asleep but couldn't stop listening. The familiar and loud song signaled an invitation to explore the dark. The chuck-will's-widow's song, which had a sense of mystery, was an experience.
• The researchers set out at dusk, hoping to capture audio recordings of the chuck-will's-widow, to see if they could find a mating pair. After waiting, the bird started its vocalization in the forest undergrowth. The repeated calls of the nocturnal bird were captured through the recording equipment for scientific study, allowing for the documentation of its unique sounds.