It will soon be time for Woodcocks to dance

I was out on a trail passing through a clearing a couple of weeks ago at dusk, when I found myself about 6’ from a Woodcock, wishing I had my camera in my hand rather than my backpack. He did a couple of quick steps, fanned his little tail feathers then flew away.

I went back later in the week to listen, but this site was about a half mile from a busy highway to the east and gravel road to the South, and both were busy with lots of traffic as people were going home from work at that hour. I could only hear one peenting faintly. I’ll need to try again on a Sunday evening.

If you are unfamiliar with what I’m talking about, google woodcock dance.

Keith Newton wrote in post #19474887
I was out on a trail passing through a clearing a couple of weeks ago at dusk, when I found myself about 6’ from a Woodcock, wishing I had my camera in my hand rather than my backpack. He did a couple of quick steps, fanned his little tail feathers then flew away.

I went back later in the week to listen, but this site was about a half mile from a busy highway to the east and gravel road to the South, and both were busy with lots of traffic as people were going home from work at that hour. I could only hear one peenting faintly. I’ll need to try again on a Sunday evening.

If you are unfamiliar with what I’m talking about, google woodcock dance.

Hosted photo: posted by Keith Newton in
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forum: Birds

Nice shot! I stumbled across one on a trail last year. He was rocking back and forth as he walked. It was quite the experience. I'd like to see the mating ritual.

Yes, they really have a groovy way of walking! Here is a short video with music.
Earthworms are their main food, and it is thought that this stomp then wobble gets the worms to move, and the woodcocks can hear that, so they then probe with their long bills, which are soft and tactile on the ends.
https://youtu.be/ne6nj​9AgY7M

Fascinating bird and antics
It has attractive plumage

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Great job spotting the Woodcock in such a well camouflaged situation!

This species is very high on my bucket list. . Used to see them all the time when I lived in the eastern U.S., but we don't have them in the west where I've lived for the last 16 years, so I really miss them. . Would love to know of a place where they can be seen reliably so that I could make a dedicated trip for them.


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