New York City is home to many animals…rats, pigeons, squirrels, and even those hiding out in the zoos!
But every once in a while, nature delivers a total superstar right to our doorstep, and this one has everyone’s attention.
Right now, the ultimate spring celebrity has touched down in Midtown, and locals are flocking to see him.
A tiny, round, dancing bird known as the American woodcock has made Bryant Park his temporary runway, and his adorable moves are completely taking over social media.
But what is this creature? We help you understand the craze.
What exactly is an American woodcock?
Also known affectionately as the “timberdoodle,” this woodland creature is basically a tiny, plump sphere of feathers with a hilariously long beak.
While they are technically related to shorebirds, woodcocks actually prefer the forest floor.
Their biggest claim to fame right now is their signature wobble.
As they walk, they do a rhythmic little head nod and dance step that has completely captivated TikTok.
People are even setting videos of the bird’s strut to massive hits like the Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive” and Men Without Hats’ “The Safety Dance.”
Why did this bird choose Midtown Manhattan?
You are probably wondering what a forest bird is doing nestled under the bushes right next to a busy 42nd Street subway exit.
The truth is, New York City happens to be a major pit stop on their annual spring migration.
As Eyewitness News ABC7NY reported in a recent broadcast, these little guys land in any green space they can find to rest and eat worms for a few days to fuel up before braving the maze of glass skyscrapers to fly upstate.
Because they are nocturnal and incredibly well camouflaged, spotting them is usually a massive challenge. Finding one just chilling in a crowded public park is a highly unique experience!
The timberdoodle takes over social media
Birders and Gen Z scrollers alike are rushing to the park to witness the cuteness in real life.
New Yorkers have literally pulled up chairs and broken out their binoculars to watch the timberdoodle groove.
It is a rare moment of connection in the city, with strangers bonding over their shared love of this wobbly little visitor.
Bryant Park has even started selling baseball caps stitched with the fan favorite bird!
How to see the dancing bird for yourself
Want to catch a glimpse of the hottest bird in NYC before he flies away? Here is everything you need to know:
- Give them space: Remember that these little guys are exhausted from flying and just want to refuel. Keep a respectful distance, keep noise to a minimum, and let them enjoy their earthworms in peace!
- Head to Bryant Park: The birds have recently been spotted hanging out quietly under the boxwood bushes near the northwest corner of the park.
- Look closely: These birds rely on their cryptic coloration to protect them from predators. You will need sharp eyes to spot their mottled brown feathers against the dirt and mulch.
- Join a tour: Bryant Park occasionally hosts special lunchtime and evening “Woodcock Walks” during the peak migration season in April to help locals spot them safely.
