WOODCOCK
one of the most popular of the smaller game birds, found in many parts of Eastern North America, from Canada to the Gulf. It averages a little larger than a snipe and is distinguished by its long beak-utilized for boring for earth-worms, its favorite diet; short, thick neck; compact, rounded body and short wings and legs. Its upper plumage is a varied grey, buff, brown and black; the under parts are a reddish-brown. The flesh is dark and rich in flavor. The European woodcock is a similar bird of larger size.