American woodcock

The American woodcock (Scolopax minor) is a species of bird found in damp woodlands across temperate North America. It is known for its squat body, long bill, and camouflaged plumage, allowing it to remain motionless until disturbed. With eyes set far back, it possesses a 360° field of vision.1

These solitary birds are most active at dusk and feed primarily on earthworms, which they extract from the ground using their sensitive bills. They migrate to avoid frozen ground, with a single bird consuming up to a pound of worms daily. Females incubate clutches of about four eggs in leaf nests. The male performs a courtship display involving a spiraling flight.1