Wildlife Wednesday at Treehaven: Woodcocks

Discover wildlife that calls Wisconsin's Northwoods home through Wildlife Wednesdays at Treehaven! Join us monthly for this FREE all-ages program series, and explore the natural history of each month's focus animal through interactive activities, guided walks, and/or specimen observation. From fur to feathers, woods to water, predator to prey, and more, experience the diversity of the animal world right outside our windows!

Introducing the silliest bird of the Northwoods—the American Woodcock, also known as the timberdoodle or bogsucker! Well-known for stunning moves on both the ground and in the air, there is much to discover about this odd little shorebird of the forest. Learn what curious traits and behaviors of the woodcock have fascinated observers for generations, including conservationist Aldo Leopold, during a casual fireside chat at scenic Dragonfly Pond! Enjoy the sunset over the pond as dusk sets in and male woodcocks become active throughout the forest. We'll listen for their "peent" calls and keep our eyes to the sky in search of their iconic springtime courtship flights!

Meet in the main parking lot. There is a brief (less than a quarter mile) walk to the pond across the parking lot and down a short trail. We will walk to the pond as a group; attendees with mobility concerns are welcome to follow behind in a vehicle and park in a smaller lot near the trail entrance for a reduced walking distance. Trail is overall wide and even, but the fire ring is located on a hillside so there will be a partial incline when departing. Talk will occur outdoors seated in a shelter around the fire ring. Participants are welcome to bring flashlights/headlamps for use as it gets dark. Cameras are also recommended for photos of the pond, sunset, and potential woodcocks in flight! All ages welcome, but children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Registration will remain open through the start of the event. Please reserve a spot for each attendee.

Questions? Email [email protected] or call 715-346-2435!

Host or Publisher Treehaven UWSP