Amami Woodcock
NameAmami Woodcock
Common NameAmami Woodcock
Scientific NameScolopax mira
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)49
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)225
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is a complex pattern of mottled browns, rufous, and black on the upperparts, providing excellent camouflage. The underparts are paler, often buffy-white with fine barring. It has a distinctive dark eye-stripe and a striped crown, with large eyes set high on the head.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a low, guttural 'grrr' or 'garr-garr' sound. During display flights, it may produce a high-pitched 'pee-wee' or 'peep-peep' call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Amami Islands (Amami-Ōshima, Tokunoshima) and Okinawa Island in the Ryukyu Islands, Japan.
Identifying FeaturesVery long, straight bill, Cryptic mottled brown plumage, Nocturnal habits, Large eyes set high on the head, Striped crown pattern
Description
The Amami Woodcock is a medium-sized, nocturnal shorebird with cryptic plumage, perfectly camouflaged for its forest habitat. It possesses a remarkably long bill, which it uses to probe soft ground for invertebrates. This secretive bird is endemic to the Ryukyu Islands of Japan.
