American Woodcock, Central Park, NYC

An American Woodcock walking and foraging for worms with it's long bill. Not an easy bird to spot especially noted when it's back is turned (or still) against the fallen leaves. The Ramble, Central Park, New York City. March 15, 2015. From The Cornell Lab of Ornithology: "The American Woodcock probes the soil with its bill to search for earthworms, using its flexible bill tip to capture prey. The bird walks slowly and sometimes rocks its body back and forth, stepping heavily with its front foot. This action may make worms move around in the soil, increasing their detectablity."

[@winniecash1654]

Aw so cute. Love these little birds. 🥰

[@quote_nature]

I do too. They are such special birds in so many ways. Thank you very much for watching.

[@winniecash1654]

@@quote_nature you are welcome!

[@veramae4098]

Saw one of these vids once with a branch swaying in the background, a small breeze. The woodcock's dance moves matched the branch movement perfectly. I'm wondering if the "dance" is a way of disguising it's movements.
'I'm just a bunch of brown leaves swaying in the wind. Ignore me, all you predators.'

[@quote_nature]

Sounds like a good idea for the woodcock! I've heard their walking movements might disturb and cause the worms to move helping the woodcock to locate them. I've also seen woodcocks freeze in the leaves and their camouflage is amazing. Thank you for your wonderful comment!

[@winniecash1654]

I was thinking the same thing.

[@erikbrobyn9763]

well, that bird is really sneakin' up on that rock ... and those twigs and stuff ... those delicious grubs and worms don't stand a chance!

[@quote_nature]

Haha... so true. Thank you for your visit and great comment. Best regards