Have you ever heard a peenting sound emanating from a field at dusk and wondered what it was? Chances are, you've encountered the American Woodcock, a fascinating bird with a unique set of characteristics. This plump, short-legged shorebird, despite its name, prefers damp woodlands and fields.
Known for its 'sky dance' mating ritual, the male Woodcock puts on a spectacular aerial display, spiraling upwards while emitting twittering sounds, then plummeting back to earth. Their long bills are perfect for probing the soil for earthworms, their primary food source. Look for them in areas with alder thickets and shrubby fields, often near streams or wet areas.
While their cryptic plumage makes them difficult to spot, learning their call and understanding their habitat preferences will greatly increase your chances of observing this extraordinary bird. Grab your binoculars and head out at dawn or dusk to witness the magic of the American Woodcock!
