The Chicago Nighthawk Project
Chicagoland’s volunteer monitoring program to track, study, and conserve the Common Nighthawk
It wouldn’t be summer in Chicago without the sound of Common Nighthawks in the evening. From stadiums, to parks, to backyards, nighthawks have been devouring insects over Chicagoland for generations. But the “common” part of their name may soon become a misnomer.
An adult Common Nighthawk with young, photo Marion Miller
Common Nighthawks are one of the fastest declining bird species in North America. In 2021, the Bird Conservation Network (a local bird conservation alliance of which COS is a founding member) released their 2021 breeding bird analysis. One of the biggest gaps present in that report was data on nighthawks. With no clear data or trends for our region and alarms being sounded nationally, COS has answered the call to action. In 2022, Chicago Nighthawk Project was launched, a long-term initiative to make Chicago a haven for these special creatures.
At the heart of the project is a volunteer monitoring protocol COS developed to best capture data on nighthawks and help answer important questions about what nighthawks need to survive and thrive in the metropolitan area. Volunteers commit to monitoring 4 points after sunset on three separate nights between the dates of June 7 and June 27. No prior experience or knowledge is required to participate. For more information about the protocol and expectations, download the updated monitoring protocol below.
Sign-ups to volunteer for the 2026 season are now open! Please download and review the monitoring protocol at the button below and, when you’re ready to get started, email us at nighthawk@chicagobirder.org
You don’t have to be a monitor to still help. Be sure to keep your eyes and ears open for your neighborhood nighthawks during the summer. If you do encounter one, submit your sighting to ebird and help us ensure there’s a future for nighthawks in Chicago!
Interested in becoming a nighthawk monitor or have questions? Contact the project team via the button below on the left. If you want to contribute financially to support the project, please use the donation button below on the right.
It’s the Year of the Nighthawk
Celebrate with Us!
2026 marks the 5th year of the Chicago Nighthawk Project! To celebrate this important milestone, COS is hosting programs, field trips, and events throughout the year to celebrate this remarkable bird. Join us at any of these free events to observe and/or learn about Common Nighthawks and meet the people who are working to conserve this incredible species.
All About the Nighthawk
April (multiple dates)
Virtual and in Person Programs
It’s the official launch of the Year of the Nighthawk! Join us for one of three programs in different locations as we celebrate 5 years, share the current knowledge on nighthawks, what we’ve learned in Chicago so far, and how you can get involved.
Shining a Light on Nighthawk Conservation
Tuesday, May 12 at 6:30pm
Virtual Program
Join us for a virtual program featuring our colleagues in Canada as we explore the similarities and differences in challenges facing nighthawks across the continent.
Nighthawk Monitoring Season!
June 7 - 27
It’s nighthawk monitoring season! Want to see/hear one for yourself? Join the team as we spread across Chicagoland in search of our favorite bird! (hint, hint)
Nighthawk Crawl
June (date TBA)
Field Trip
Join us for an evening stroll and carpool through Chicago in search of our friendly neighborhood nighthawks and contribute data to the project.
Project Nighthawk: Conserving Common Nighthawks in NH
Thursday, July 16 at 6pm
Virtual Program
Join us for a virtual program featuring our colleagues in New Hampshire as we explore the work they’re doing to bring back nighthawks and their urban habitats.
Nighthawk Migration Watch
August (date TBA)
Field Trip
Join us for this beloved annual summer tradition. On their southbound migration, nighthawks gather in large groups called kettles. Join us for a bird themed picnic to catch these kettles as they cruise through Chicago.
Nightjars of the World
Saturday, October 3 at 10am
In Person Program
Join us for a tour behind-the-scenes at the Field Museum's Bird Collection highlighting nightjar specimens! We’ll explore the role museums play in conservation as we get an up close look at species from around the world.
Wear the Look!
Looking for a way to show your love of nighthawks? We’re very excited to unveil a new design by local artist and long-time nighthawk monitor Joe Feliciano! Now is your chance to add Chicago’s nighthawks to your wardrobe while also supporting bird conservation and education across Chicagoland.
Project Updates
Learn More
There are lots of amazing resources available to learn more about nighthawks and other nightjars. Many organizations across the country are working hard to study and conserve the species. To learn more about these organizations, the work they do, and nighthawks in general, check out some of these resources!
The Urban Wildlife Institute at Lincoln Park Zoo is a key partner in the Chicago Nighthawk Project. Chicago Ornithological Society acknowledges and thanks them for their crucial and ongoing support in the success of this program and bird conservation.