Instead of building traditional nests, they lay their eggs directly on the ground, typically in concealed locations within their forested habitats.

The subspecies differ primarily in geographic location, with only subtle physical variations in size, colour and vocalizations.

[9] Unlike many nightjar species, band-tailed nighthawks lack elongated rictal bristles.

[10] The immature and juvenile phases are also similar to the mature adult, although are slightly more plain and paler.

[12] It is located through much of the northern parts of South America, from east of the Andes to Venezuela and central Brazil.

[13] Its natural habitat is in subtropical and tropical areas located near water, along rivers, streams, marshes, and lakes.

[2][7][8] The band-tailed nighthawk is a nocturnal species, and is the most active during the late evening, early morning, and at night.

The nesting period occurs between September and October, when the wet season begins and there is a high amount of food availability.

The nest is a shallow hole on the ground, usually in open areas with little coverage, such as gravel beaches or forest floors.

[2][10] In between feeding sessions, it roosts in the same area, on thin horizontal branches close to vegetation and water.

[12] While Amazonian deforestation is predicted to cause a decrease in its population, it has a large geographic range and is a fairly common species.