9 Birds That Sing at Night

Introduction

Most birds sing during the day, but some species prefer to sing under the cover of darkness. These nocturnal songbirds use their melodies to attract mates, defend their territories, or communicate with their flock. Whether you’re a birdwatcher or just someone who enjoys the sounds of nature, knowing which birds sing at night can be fascinating. Here are nine birds that are known for their nighttime songs.

1. Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos)

The Northern Mockingbird is famous for its ability to mimic the songs of other birds. Males sing loudly, sometimes all night, especially during the breeding season. Their continuous singing helps them attract mates and mark their territory.

2. Eastern Whip-poor-will (Antrostomus vociferus)

Named after its distinct call, the Eastern Whip-poor-will repeats its name in a rhythmic chant. This bird is most active at dusk and dawn but often sings throughout the night, especially in the spring and summer.

3. Common Nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos)

The Common Nightingale is one of the most famous nocturnal songbirds. Found in Europe, Asia, and Africa, this bird produces beautiful, melodious songs, often heard in forests and gardens at night.

4. European Robin (Erithacus rubecula)

Though typically diurnal, European Robins sometimes sing at night, especially in urban areas where artificial lighting confuses their natural rhythms. Their sweet and continuous song can be heard during the colder months.

5. Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)

Unlike most songbirds, the Black-crowned Night Heron is more known for its squawking calls. Active at night, these herons can be heard near wetlands as they communicate with their flock and hunt for food.

6. Yellow-breasted Chat (Icteria virens)

This secretive bird is known for its strange mix of whistles, cackles, and chattering sounds. Males often sing at night, especially during the breeding season, to establish their territory.

7. Barn Owl (Tyto alba)

Barn Owls don’t sing in the traditional sense, but they produce eerie screeches and hissing sounds at night. These vocalizations serve as communication between mates and warnings to potential intruders.

8. Upland Sandpiper (Bartramia longicauda)

A shorebird with a distinctive, bubbling call, the Upland Sandpiper sings during nighttime flights, particularly during migration. Their sounds are often heard over open fields and grasslands.

9. Tawny Owl (Strix aluco)

The Tawny Owl is well-known for its haunting “hoot” calls, which echo through forests at night. Males and females call to each other as part of their territorial and courtship behaviors.

Conclusion

Hearing birds sing at night can be both soothing and intriguing. While some sing for mating purposes and territorial defense, others use their calls for navigation or communication. Understanding these nocturnal songbirds can deepen our appreciation for the natural world, even after the sun goes down.