The
American woodcock (
Scolopax minor) is a small
shorebird in the
sandpiper family, Scolopacidae. It is found mainly in the eastern half of North America, where it is the most common sandpiper, although unlike most other species it lives primarily in upland woods, thickets, and brushy wetlands. Its
plumage is a mottled mix of brown, gray and black that provides effective
camouflage against leaves and soil. The American woodcock has a plump body, short legs, large eyes set high on the head, and a long prehensile bill used to probe moist soil for
earthworms and other invertebrates. Males are known for their spring courtship displays, giving a buzzy
peent call before spiraling into the air. The species is considered of
least concern globally, but its population has declined because of habitat loss and forest maturation. This American woodcock was photographed in
Bryant Park, New York City, United States.
Photograph credit: Rhododendrites
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