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Autumn DeChurch's avatar

These round balls of complete "adorable" are miracle babies like every other bird is. Some are just a bit more abnormal (IN A GREAT WAY) than others. I live in Pennsylvania so I've never seen one in person...but I'd love to. They look so mild mannered and innocent. Not that every animal isn't innocent...but some species would LITTERALY not harm a fly if given the chance.

I wish I could "meet" every bird in person however lol.

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Gary Spangler's avatar

Thanks so much for your fascinating post! I attended Penn State ‘67-‘71. An odd area outside State College called The Barrens had burned a number of times from coal fired locomotives, leaving the ground charred and unable to support normal plant life. Dwarf, twisted oak trees and almost impenetrable scrub brush. On a solo outing to The Barrens one day, a Woodcock flushed in a burst then settled a short distance away. I moved quietly toward its landing spot, hoping for a closer glimpse. Succeeding briefly I saw its staggering body shape and long bill. Off it flew. A species I’d love to see again. Thank you so much Bob Dolgan for your skills!

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The Jaunty Gallivanter's avatar

This is towards the top of my "birds I love and have never seen" list. It's the delightful dance/walk for me. We do have them in my neck of the woods (though not plentiful) so I remain hopeful that I can see one in action one of these days.

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Jobi Cates's avatar

Love this, wonderful reflection on the woodcock and what it means each spring. I was also thrilled to find out I can listen to your post - the narration makes it so much easier for me (I have some neurological issues that make reading on a screen or even on paper challenging). Thank you!!!

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Bob Dolgan's avatar

Oh great, thank you! Yes, I have been listening to more and more posts, it’s a very nice feature.

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Lisa Saffell's avatar

It’s a good thing they have such an acrobatic mating display. They need all the help they can get! lol

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Terry Moisan's avatar

I’m always delighted to see what you see in your area of the country. I love this description of the American Woodcock. I’ve. Ever seen a bird quite like this one and how it’s such an early sign of spring to come with all its new life. Thanks, as always for this post.

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