Watch woodcocks at Stillman center

You got to love a bird with nicknames such as timberdoodle and bogsucker. Of course, it is more commonly known as the American woodcock and each spring it goes through its amazing mating ritual.

A woodcock, is a portly inland sandpiper with a long beak and short legs. It is a migratory species that does not return to the area until March. The birds' mating displays are generally limited to the lowlight conditions found near sunset and sunrise. In past years, the woodcocks have put on quite a show at Stillman.

Bring you binoculars and come join the fun at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, March 20 and 27 at Stillman Nature Center, on Penny Road in South Barrington, between routes 59 and 62. There is no charge, but space is limited so call (847) 428-OWLS to make reservations or e-mail stillnc@wildblue.net. Dress warmly and wear shoes you don't mind getting muddy. Recommended for ages 8 and up.

Stillman is an 80-acre, nonprofit environmental education facility. If you can't make it for the woodcock watches, Stiilman is always open to drop-in visitors (at no charge) on Sundays from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Dogs, on a leash, are welcome to tag along as you explore Stillman's trails.