Video: Search for The Weird and Wonderful American Woodcock
(Crystal A. Proxmire, April 16, 2025)
Michigan – The first time I saw an American Woodcock, I was perplexed. The squishy looking blob of a bird that wobbled strangely down the path in the woods was like no bird I had ever seen. It had a long beak and adorable gigantic eyes like you might see on a cartoon character. The eyes are high on it’s head, making it superb at spotting danger. And the noise it made as it bopped along was like a cross between a dog toy and a whoopie cushion.
I was exploring Oakwood Lake Park in Oxford Township when I had that encounter which actually prompted me to download the Merlin App and start learning more about the birds I would see on my adventures. The app helps users identify birds by sound, by picture, or by description. Users can track their sightings and that database helps Cornell University Lab of Omithelogy with their research.
I was very lucky to have gotten such a close look and clear picture of a Woodcock, also known as a Timberdoodle. The birds are made to blend in well with the leaves and shrubs of the forest floor, and they are mainly nocturnal. This one just happened to be out in the daytime, in a place with more grass than debris.
I even got to see it wobble along the pathway and spread it’s wings, perhaps showing off for a lady woodcock hidden in the nearby bushes.
It might also have been hunting. The bird has a distinct stomping motion that helps to terrify any earthworms that might be in the ground below. The worms are scared by the movement and retreat deeper into the dirt. The Woodcock hears the movement and uses it’s long beak to dart in there and pull them out.
What I also didn’t realize at the time was that not only are these creatures known for their unusual looks – their courtship dance is also an intriguing sight.
I finally got the chance last week when a friend in Midland told me it was time to come up an see. American Woodcocks live in Michigan through the spring and summer before heading south for winter. And in early spring they may be seen in fields that are at the edges of woodlands, where the males do their romantic dance and amazing flights to impress the ladies only for a few short minutes at dusk and at dawn.
The males begin by announcing their presence with a sound described by experts as “peent.” After this lovely intro, a Woodcock takes off into the air, forming giant circles as it soars so high that they get lost in the distance before spiraling boldly downward. As they fly the wind passes through their wings making a strange fluttering sound that undoubtedly impresses the ladies. They land near their desired female then start the dance all over again.
My friend in Midland had found the perfect spot on a trail just off a road in the Chippewa Nature Center. With flashlights in hand and the Merlin app on we walked to the perfect spot and waited for the sun to set. Just as the sky started to go from pink and orange to night sky blue we heard the first calls, and before long there were three eager males taking turns soaring high up into the air.
Following the sounds we used our flashlights to find them in the dark. They weren’t put off by our lights or our steps, though it was very hard to get pictures because of the camouflage.
The moments of romance lasted less than fifteen minutes, and as the stars shone bright against the blackened sky, the showing off came to an end as the Woodcocks retreated to the safety of the woods to work on creating the next generation of silly-looking, squeaky birds.
Video definitely does not do justice to seeing the flight in person, but you can see the tremendous heights and hear the unusual calls. I’ve included pictures from both the Midland excursion, plus the 2024 sighting in Oxford for a closer look. But the best way to experience it is to try and find a spot to go out and see for yourself.
It can be hard to pinpoint where to see American Woodcocks in flight, but Michigan DNR is hosting an event on April 24 near Gladwin with a guided hike in an area known for their presence.
According to their press release, “Spring is in the air – and so are American woodcock! The “peent” of an American woodcock ushers in the signature start of springtime in Michigan. To enjoy the return of migratory birds, grab your binoculars and join the DNR and the Ruffed Grouse Society for a guided woodcock walk at the Lame Duck Foot Access Area GEMS location Thursday, April 24.
Located 15 miles northeast of Gladwin, this 11,000-acre Grouse Enhanced Management Site is Michigan’s largest and provides ideal habitat for American woodcock, ruffed grouse and Wilson’s snipe. As evening falls, watch and listen as male woodcock take to the sky in their mesmerizing courtship display – don’t miss this chance to experience one of spring’s most magical wildlife performances!
All ages are welcome and encouraged. Tour participants will meet at 7:30 p.m. at the corner of Bowmanville Road and Lame Duck Truck Trail (44.098025, -84.236925).
Prepare for the walk
- Bring binoculars (if you have them) and a flashlight or headlamp.
- Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. Trails may be muddy and uneven; due to the terrain, this event is not considered accessible under Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines.
- Enhance your experience with birding apps like eBird, iNaturalist, Merlin Bird ID or Audubon Bird Guide.
For more information and to RSVP, contact Bruce Barlow at 989-426-9205, ext. 2267630. Learn more about GEMS at Michigan.gov/GEMS.”
For more on Woodcock sightings locally, check out this Oakland County Blog from 2020.
