Woodcock Scolopax rusticola feeding in snow on Norfolk coastal farmland
RMID:Image ID:BGYKND
Image details
Contributor:
Ernie Janes / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
BGYKNDFile size:
48 MB (1.8 MB Compressed download)Releases:
Model - no | Property - noDo I need a release?Dimensions:
5018 x 3343 px | 42.5 x 28.3 cm | 16.7 x 11.1 inches | 300dpiDate taken:
23 December 2009Location:
Norfolk EnglandMore information:
Woodcock is the only species of wading bird in Britain and Ireland that is adapted to breed in woodland, both broad-leaved and coniferous. Its plumage is superbly camouflaged to blend in with dead leaf litter and ground vegetation, where it may roost or make its nest; remaining motionless unless approached at very close quarters.The male performs a courtship flight known as 'roding' at dusk in spring. When threatened, the female can carry chicks between her legs, in her claws or on her back while flying, though this is rarely witnessed. The world population is estimated to be 15 million to 16 million birds.