Information for hunting, shooting, fishing and field sports in Scotland

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Woodcock

Woodcock

Woodcock are wading birds which inhabit damp woodland with open rides. Often found in pheasant woods, they feed nocturnally around streams, pasture fields and on boggy ground, but prefer dense cover during the day. The resident population in Britain is increased by a large over-wintering migrant population. It is thought by some that the bulk of this migration coincides with the first full moon in November. Swooping, erratic flight makes it a prized quarry, particularly on walked up shoots. Due to this erratic flight extra care should be taken by the sportsman to ensure a safe shot.

Season Dates

1 October - 31 January (England, Wales and NI) 1 September - 31 January (Scotland)

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