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American Woodcock

Scolopax minor ORDER: CHARADRIIFORMES FAMILY: SCOLOPACIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

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American Woodcock Photo

© Michael J. Hopiak/CLO

A shorebird that lives in forests, the American Woodcock is most frequently encountered at dusk when the male's chirping, peenting aerial displays attract attention. Otherwise the superbly camouflaged bird is difficult to discover on the forest floor where it probes for earthworms.

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Appearance

Shorebirdlike
Shorebirdlike
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Plump, with round head.
  • No apparent neck.
  • Long bill.
  • Brown and black concealing pattern.

Immature Description

Juvenile like adult, but slightly duller.

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American Woodcock Range Map
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Similar Species

  • Wilson's Snipe similarly built, but has stripes down back and on belly, lacks buffy tones.
  • Ruffed Grouse also well camouflaged, but has a short bill and longish tail.