A member of the Sandpiper family, the American Woodcock lives in woods and swamps. The male has a spectacular display of courtship flight, with circling and zigzagging in midair. Note the long beak used for probing the ground for earthworms.

Considered game birds, Woodcocks are hunted in some states. Despite the beautiful plumage that helps camouflage them, many are predated while nesting on the ground. They also succumb to pesticides.

This adult was brought to us after being hit by a car, and was eventually released back into the wild.