It’s that time of year again when American woodcocks return from their far-away wintering grounds to engage in one of the more bizarre mating rituals of any animal in our area. During the last few moments of daylight, male woodcocks perform an unusual courtship display that the famous naturalist, Aldo Leopold, called “the sky dance.” The males repeatedly spiral high up into the air and then return to the ground in a wild zig-zag, all in hopes of impressing and attracting one of the females watching and judging their performance. Join us on a guided evening walk to one of the local places where woodcocks can often be seen engaging in their aerial displays. We’ll meet in Great Hollow’s visitor parking area at 7 pm and then take a short drive over to the Great Swamp Wildlife Management Area off Cornwall Hill Rd. in Patterson, NY. You may also meet us there directly if you prefer (190 Cornwall Hill Rd., Patterson, NY, 12563). Please dress appropriately for the weather, and bring a flashlight, as we will be returning to our vehicles in the dark. Free for members; a suggested donation of $10 per person for non-members is greatly appreciated. No dogs, please. Advanced registration is required; please sign up by emailing John. *Please note that while we will do our best to see woodcocks, there is no way to guarantee it.