This is your chance to see and hear the strange and wacky twilight courtship dance, calling, and acrobatic flight of the secretive timberdoodles (AKA woodcocks).

It is one of the most remarkable signs of spring.

Nasal sounds in the grass, then a flappy shape zooms straight up, whistles across the sky and dives to the ground!

Before heading outside, wildlife educator Sarah Kern will share insight on what it’s like to be a worm-eating, wall-eyed daredevil bird with crazy dance moves. Then, at sunset, we’ll walk to one of the Word Barn Meadows , enjoy the gibbous moon, and wait for the action to start.

Feel free to bring a portable chair to use while we wait (woodcocks have used the Word Barn Meadows annually for their courtship, so the wait likely won’t be long, if at all). Dress for the weather as a portion of this program is outside; wear sturdy, waterproof shoes (it’s spring time in New Hampshire); bring binoculars if you have them, and a flashlight or headlamp for the walk out at dusk.

This is not a youth program, but super family friendly and children are most welcome (and will surely be fascinated, inspired, and learn lots). Children under 10 are free, but are required to register given capacity limitations.