American Woodcock's Viral Dance Draws Crowds to Bryant Park Bird Walks
On Friday, over 650 individuals gathered in Bryant Park, New York City, to witness American woodcocks, which gained fame through viral dance videos. Naturalist Gabriel Willow expressed satisfaction with the turnout, emphasizing the importance of bird protection. Liz Riegel, the event organizer, believes their quirky looks and unique rocking movements contribute to their appeal. Records indicate that woodcocks have been spotted in Bryant Park since 2002, with one to three typically seen during spring migration. This park acts as a stopover for these birds, known for their 'sky dance' during mating. Although classified as least concern, the American woodcock population faced a decline from 1966 to 2019 due to habitat loss, predation, and collisions. Conservationists hope their newfound popularity will promote protective measures.
Key facts
- Over 650 people attended a bird walk in Bryant Park on Friday to see American woodcocks
- Woodcocks have been recorded in Bryant Park since 2002 via eBird
- One to three woodcocks are typically found in the park during spring migration
- Woodcocks may eat their own weight in earthworms daily
- The American woodcock population is estimated at 3.5 million but declined between 1966 and 2019
- Male woodcocks perform aerial courtship displays reaching 250-300 feet in altitude
- Woodcock chicks begin probing for worms three to four days after hatching
- The species faces threats from cat predation, habitat loss, and building collisions
Entities
Institutions
- Smithsonian magazine
- University of Rhode Island
- New York Times
- Audubon magazine
- Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society
- eBird
Locations
- New York City
- United States
- Bryant Park
- Manhattan
- Midtown
- Rhode Island