Eurasian Woodcock song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Eurasian Woodcock, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

The 'song' is part of the male's 'roding' display flight. It consists of a series of low, guttural croaks or grunts ('orrrt-orrrt-orrrt') followed by high-pitched, whistling notes ('psiss-psiss-psiss'). This sequence is repeated.

Calls

When flushed, it often emits a sharp, high-pitched 'scap' or 'tzick' call. Other calls include soft 'chip' notes.

When they vocalize

Mainly vocalizes during the breeding season (March to July), particularly at dusk and dawn during 'roding' flights. Alarm calls can be heard if disturbed at any time.

Explore the Eurasian Woodcock