Ep 4. Timberdoodles of Moosehorn

In this episode of Wild America season 6, viewers are taken on a journey to the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge in Maine. The focus of the episode is the American woodcock, also known as the timberdoodle, a bird that calls the refuge home during its breeding season.

The episode begins with a picturesque view of the refuge, showcasing the dense forests and unspoiled grasslands that serve as the woodcock's habitat. Hosts Marty Stouffer and Richard Matthews explain the significance of the refuge, which was established in 1937 to protect wildlife and provide habitat for migratory birds.

Viewers are then introduced to the timberdoodle, a unique and fascinating bird that has captured the attention of scientists and bird enthusiasts alike. The woodcock is known for its unusual mating behavior, which involves complex aerial displays and intricate courtship rituals. Marty and Richard set out to witness these displays, eager to capture them on camera for viewers at home.

The hosts team up with local wildlife experts and researchers, who show them where to find the woodcocks and explain their behavior in more detail. Viewers get a rare look at these elusive birds as they strut and dance across the grasslands, performing their intricate courtship displays as they search for a mate.

As the episode unfolds, viewers learn more about the woodcock's breeding habits and the challenges they face in a changing world. The timberdoodle is a species in decline, with habitat loss and other human activities threatening their survival. Marty and Richard speak with experts about what is being done to protect the woodcock and what individuals can do to help.

The episode also showcases some of the other wildlife that calls the refuge home, including black bears, moose, and beavers. While the focus is on the timberdoodle, the hosts take time to explore the broader ecosystem of the refuge and its importance in the region.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning footage of the woodcocks in action, as well as the other wildlife that inhabits the refuge. Marty and Richard provide informative and engaging commentary, sharing their knowledge and passion for the natural world with viewers.

In the end, the episode leaves viewers with a deeper appreciation for the timberdoodle and the incredible wildlife that inhabit our planet. It serves as a reminder that, while we may not always see them, there are amazing creatures all around us, and we have a responsibility to protect them.