For example, the northern mockingbird can make a noise that sounds like a cat meowing. Birds make contact calls to keep in touch with each other, often while theyre foraging for food. If you hear a series of three or four hoots in quick succession, its likely that a great grey owl is nearby. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/299641. For example when I hear the descending song of a chaffinch I always see a cricketer running up to the crease and bowling a ball with a flourish. The killdeer typically nests near bodies of water, so if you live near a lake or pond, youre likely to hear this bird late at night. It imitates not only birds but also other animals and mechanical sounds such as a car alarm and lawn mowers, a gate opening. Your support helps secure a future for birds at risk. Over the last 50 years, their population has declined by 37 percent. A Squeaking Sound At Night This is most commonly used with birds that live in the wild, as they are less likely to have been trained to sing a specific song. These owls are known for their deep hoots, which can be heard for up to a mile away. The Cornell Lab will send you updates about birds, birding, and opportunities to help bird conservation. Learn how to identify British birds with our essential birdsong guide, including advice on how to improve your identification skills. In the United States, ABC is helping Upland Sandpipers and other grassland birds by promoting practices that incentivize sustainable grazing practices and grassland retention, restore formerly cropped lands, and reduce herbicide use. 3. The Eurasian nightjars call is a distinctive churring noise that has been described as sounding like a saw being sharpened. Flocks of shorebirds also may be vocal in the air. Black-and-white Warbler - Song Song Eastern Screech Owl Daytime, Being Mobbed. This noise is often used as a way to communicate with other birds, as well as to defend their territory. Night-calling bird in southern New Hampshire chlyn Aug 6, 2007 C chlyn Member Aug 6, 2007 #1 This bird sang at dusk and dawn, close to our campsite. What bird sounds like a squeaky wheel in the UK? Cedar Waxwings call often, especially in flight.