American Woodcock

The American woodcock (Scolopax minor), sometimes affectionately known as the timberdoodle, is a small, plump shorebird. This species exhibits a remarkable blend of browns, grays, and black across its plumage, providing it with superb camouflage against the forest floor. The woodcock's large, rounded head and long, straight bill, which is prehensile and ideal for probing the soil, are distinctive features. Males are smaller than females, and the species can be identified by its unique silhouette and cryptic coloration.

Identification Tips

To identify the American woodcock, look for a bird with a body length of 10 to 12 inches and a wingspan of 16.5 to 18.9 inches. The bird's bill, measuring 2.5 to 2.8 inches, is notably long and straight. Its eyes are positioned high on the head, providing an almost unparalleled field of vision. The plumage is a masterful camouflage of earth tones, and the bird's short legs and weak feet are less noticeable.

Habitat

The American woodcock inhabits young-forest habitats, including wet thickets, moist woods, and brushy swamps. These environments provide the dense cover and moist soil that woodcocks prefer.

Distribution

This species is found primarily in the eastern half of North America. Its breeding range extends from southeastern Canada to parts of the southern United States, with winter migrations taking it as far south as the Gulf Coast and Mexico.

Behaviour

Woodcocks are crepuscular, most active during twilight hours. They exhibit a fascinating "rocking" behavior while foraging, which may either help them detect prey or signal their awareness to potential predators.

Song & Calls

The male woodcock's "peent" call is a harbinger of spring in northern areas. During courtship, males perform a spectacular aerial display accompanied by a melodious twittering produced by air rushing through their wing feathers.

Breeding

Breeding involves males establishing singing grounds and performing display flights to attract females. The female woodcock lays her eggs in a simple ground nest, and the precocial young are quick to leave the nest and forage under their mother's watchful eye.

Similar Species

While the American woodcock is the only woodcock species in North America, it can be confused with other shorebirds. However, its unique behavior, habitat preference, and vocalizations generally distinguish it from similar species.

Diet and Feeding

The woodcock's diet consists mainly of invertebrates, with a particular fondness for earthworms. Its long bill is specially adapted to probe the soil for these and other soft-bodied creatures.

Conservation status

The American woodcock is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, its population has been in decline due to habitat loss, prompting conservation efforts to maintain and create suitable early successional habitats.