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| I have no woodcock photos, so this load of sawdust... made from wood will have to do |
Not the navigator....
Nor the bumblebee...
The flight instead of the Timberdoodle.
Better known as the American Woodcock, this fat little shorebird, who looks nothing like others of his ilk, is doing his thing these days. I first heard of this magical spring dance in Aldo Leopold's Sand County Almanac. I have always loved the outdoors and the wild things, but stumbling on that book in the college bookstore way back when was a real game changer.
Then I first experienced the joy at the cabin in Caroga Lake. We sat on the tailgate of my truck every night in fair weather, listening to the show across the road and straining for a glimpse of the dancer.
Light rain and dog walking in the early dark today. Not much traffic, which is the right kind of weather for this kind of doodling. First dog, no joy.
Second dog, Jill the Border Collie, and almost instantly the twittering tumble of flight feathers began. We have heard several others this spring, but none so very close and clear.
It was right behind the house. If there had been any light I am sure I could have seen it but for today just the music will do.
I am thankful for these things of spring, the four-robin chorus going on right now, the thin trickle of migrants coming through already, and the magical flight of the Timberdoodle.
Stay safe and strong dear friends and family. Much love from Northview Farm.
I was wondering if it was too early for woodcocks...How fortunate you are to have them close at hand.
ReplyDeleteThank you for keeping us all company during these solitary days.
Lovely Marianne . . .
ReplyDeleteDitto what Jonna said :)
This is what makes the current situation bearable:
"I am thankful for these things of spring, the four-robin chorus going on right now, the thing trickle of migrants coming through already, and the magical flight of the Timberdoodle."
Wishing your dear family health and happiness and birdsong to always accompany your Northview.
Jonna, I am thrilled every single time I hear one. Glad to know you are out there.....my internet friends are always circling through the fields in the back of my mind. Take care and be safe.
ReplyDeleteCathy, I am trying to stay sane. It isn't necessarily going well, but the outdoors helps. Communicating with my virtual friends helps too....a lot. Good wishes and prayers for you and yours as well, and thanks for the things you have been sending for us to read. Useful information indeed.