The American Woodcock is a rotund, almost neckless shorebird of moist forests and alder thickets that feeds by plunging its bill into soft soil to feel for earthworms, its flexible bill tip able to open underground. The spring 'sky dance' courtship display — the male calling from a clearing then rocketing into the darkening sky to spiral down while chirping — is one of nature's most endearing spectacles. Its large eyes are positioned so far back it has near 360-degree vision.
Habitat
Moist forests, alder thickets, and brushy fields near streams
Diet
Earthworms, beetles, and other soil invertebrates
How common
Common
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