As I was cutting across an open field at dusk on the 4 wheeler heading back to camp after a successful afternoon hunt with a doe hunter, I drove up on this stationary avian wonder that was blinded by my headlights. This woodcock was nestled in the short grass area that was surrounded by prime foraging habitat that consists of a wet boggy area perfect for their prehensile bills to penetrate as they probe around for grubs and worms in the soft soil. My hunter and I had been hearing several of these birds peenting all evening as their fall migration was just beginning. We watched from the deer blind as they would display their courtship ritual of spiraling up in the air making that unique “whirly-gig” sound and come straight back down to the same spot they took off from. I explained to my hunter as we waited for a doe harvest opportunity the unique ecology of this migratory game bird that is very abundant in these parts and not many Texas hunters wing shoot for any more. As I slowly got off my 4 wheeler and approached the bird from behind, I cautiously snuck up as close as I could and reached out for it. I snatched it up and quickly explained to my hunter that I have never heard of anyone catching a live woodcock by hand the way I just did, and since it was woodcock season it was a legal take. This was the first woodcock I had ever held, live or dead. I studied about this amazing animal a lot in college and felt like this was a pinnacle point in my career as a wildlife biologist. When you come out to hunt with me, be sure to ask to see this bird since I have it mounted with a common snipe. I love to explain the similarities and differences between the two species and how fun they are to hunt. Be sure to book your woodcock or snipe hunt for next season.
