March 2023 • Nebraskaland 49
woody encroachment can spell trouble for grassland bird
populations, many of which are declining because of habitat
loss.
Fortunately, woodcock are unlikely to compete with any
grassland species given the rather large gaps between the
habitat, forage and environmental requirements of these
weird forest shorebirds and grassland birds. Seeing these
birds in such an unusual location off ers a unique birding
experience, but additional westward spread of this species
in Nebraska will refl ect an additional loss of grasslands.
Furthermore, wooded and shrubby areas in eastern Nebraska,
including those on wildlife management areas, seem to
be off ering adequate habitat for this and other woodland
species.
A Pioneering Bird
As another winter gives way to spring, woodcock will
again return to sites in eastern and central Nebraska to
perform their curious courtship display. Certainly a few will
try to nest and summer in the state. Woodcock that come to
Nebraska are, in many ways, pioneers pushing the limits of
their existence, and this research has provided many new
revelations and information about the bird, both within the
state and beyond.
Keep an ear out early this spring, on the fi rst calm and
mild evening just after the sun sets, for a nasally peent and
a twittering fl ight, for the story of woodcock in Nebraska is
certainly a unique and fascinating saga.
N
A male American woodcock performs a courtship display and calls in an open grassland at Yankee Hill WMA.
