THE WOODCOCK.
WOODCOCK.
The Common Woodcock has a very long, straight and slender bill, and a flattened head. These Birds live in the woods, and seldom frequent the shore or river banks. They differ from the Snipes in having a fuller body and broader wings. They are shy, timid Birds, and conceal themselves by day in the depths of the most retired woods. The brightness of daylight appears to dazzle them, and they do not seem to see clearly until evening when they leave their retreats to seek their food of worms and grubs in the cultivated fields, damp meadows or near springs.
The Woodcock lays four or five oval eggs rather larger than those of the Pigeon. The young Birds run about as soon as they are hatched, and the parent Birds guard them with great care. If any danger threatens, the old Birds catch up their little ones, holding them under their necks by means of their beaks, and thus carry them to a place of safety.