The American woodcock (Scolopax minor) is a small shorebird in the sandpiper family, Scolopacidae. It is found mainly in the eastern half of North America, where it is the most common sandpiper, although unlike most other species it lives primarily in upland woods, thickets, and brushy wetlands. Its plumage is a mottled mix of brown, gray and black that provides effective camouflage against leaves and soil. The American woodcock has a plump body, short legs, large eyes set high on the head, and a long prehensile bill used to probe moist soil for earthworms and other invertebrates. Males are known for their spring courtship displays, giving a buzzy peent call before spiraling into the air. The species is considered of least concern globally, but its population has declined because of habitat loss and forest maturation. This American woodcock was photographed in Bryant Park, New York City, United States.

Photograph credit: Rhododendrites