Timberdoodle Love is in the Air at Forest Preserve Birding Events

The chubby timberdoodle, also known as the American woodcock can be seen at dusk in March and April in the Forest Preserves of Cook County.

COOK COUNTY, IL -- In spring the Forest Preserves of Cook County become filled with the strange mating rituals of timberdoodles, ruby-throated hummingbirds and red-bellied woodpeckers.

The Forest Preserves’ expert birders offer visitors numerous opportunities to view some of the most interesting and spectacular birds in the preserves at bird walks, festivals and informational programs around Cook County.

Did you know that just after dusk in late March and early April, the male timberdoodle -- also known as the American woodcock -- performs a spectacular aerial mating dance in prairie openings and along woodland edges? The chubby, long billed bird stands in place while turning and emitting a peenting sound, then flies up in a spiral of fluttering feathers before he zig-zags down, singing, whistling and kissing.

The male sits on the ground and waits for a mate, repeating the ritual as many times necessary. If a female timberdoodle in the area is impressed, she’ll join him to breed.

Each month, a new bird will be highlighted. Visitors will able to spot the bird of the month at an event or program, and learn what makes that bird so special. Numerous birding groups will also be hosting bird walks throughout the year. Visit fpdcc.com/birding to learn more about the multitude of birding opportunities.

Birders of all skill levels can also explore the preserves with teams competing in the Forest Preserves Big Year birding competition. During the Big Year competition, the preserves compete instead of people. Participants will visit their team’s preserve and log all bird sightings on eBird, an an online birding checklist program. All are welcome to join these searches and binoculars will be available for loan.

The competition runs from March 1 to Dec. 31. It’s a great way to challenge yourself and explore a local preserve, make new friends and experience what birding is all about. Visit Big Year 2016 to learn more about the competition.

Visitors are also invited to visit any of the Forest Preserves’ six nature centers on May 7 between 5:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. to see how many birds can be heard of spotted from within a 17-foot circle. The Big Sit will help ecologists make better decisions about the conservation of bird habitat.

Source: Forest Preserves of Cook County