Timberdoodles!

The American Woodcocks (also called timberdoodles) have returned to New England. On Sunday night I went over to Worcester Airport to see if they were there. Around dusk I started to hear the males calling. Their "peents" seemed to be coming from everywhere but in the low light they are almost impossible to find. When you think that you're looking in the right area, the bird will burst out of the grass in a completely different location. They fly high into the air until they vanish from view. The only thing that tells you they haven't flown away is the sound of their wings. Then, as quickly as he starts, the woodcock returns to the field and starts to call again. This "dance" really has to be seen to be believed.

If you'd like to read a better description of this ritual, check out Marj Rines "Woodcock Dancing" site.