Eurasian Woodcock

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The Eurasian Woodcock is a nocturnal, cryptic wading bird known for its excellent camouflage and secretive nature. It prefers damp woodlands and forests, where its large eyes and long bill are perfectly adapted for probing for invertebrates in soft ground.

Where to spot

Breeds across temperate and boreal forests of Eurasia, from Western Europe to Japan. Winters in milder forested areas of Western Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa, and South Asia.

How to spot

Look for its plump body, long straight bill, and large eyes set high on its head. Its mottled brown plumage provides superb camouflage. To see them, seek out damp woodlands, especially at dawn or dusk, and look for their characteristic 'roding' flight.

When to spot

Best observed at dusk or dawn during the breeding season (spring) when males perform their distinctive 'roding' display flight over clearings. During migration and winter, they are elusive and require patience to spot in dense cover.

Where to spot

Breeds across temperate and boreal forests of Eurasia, from Western Europe to Japan. Winters in milder forested areas of Western Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa, and South Asia.

How to spot

When to spot

Credits: LTapsaH

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

The eyes of the Eurasian Woodcock are set very far back on its head, giving it an almost 360-degree field of vision, allowing it to detect predators from all directions without moving its head.

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