The woodcock is one of the UK's most elusive bird species but now wildlife researchers are beginning to unravel its mysteries. Using satellite tracking technology, the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) is finally shedding a welcome light on the habits and behaviour of this secretive but much-loved wader bird.
The GWCT's Dr Andrew Hoodless, a leading expert on woodcock, will be revealing the results of some of this cutting-edge research at a special evening talk being held at Lady's Wood Shooting School at Chipping Sodbury in Gloucestershire on the evening of Wednesday 16 April. Proceeds from the evening will go towards funding for further GWCT woodcock research.
Already the satellite tracking research has revealed that, despite its diminutive size, migrating woodcock can fly for 18 to 24 hours non-stop while covering distances of more than 1000 km (625 miles) in that time. Like Olympic champions, some of the woodcock wintering with us in Britain originate from breeding grounds as far east as central Siberia, some 7,000 km (4,380) miles away.
In the past two years 24 woodcock from different locations in the UK have had satellite transmitters attached to them in order to record their long flights back to their breeding grounds. Bird watchers and sportsmen alike, who are sponsoring individual birds, can watch the progress of these birds as these breath-taking flights are recorded in ‘real time’ on the dedicated website at www.woodcockwatch.com.
Dr Hoodless said, "The GWCT has pioneered research on the woodcock for 30 years, but until recently we had only a poor understanding of their migrations. Our recent research has greatly expanded our knowledge and, with better population estimates, will help us ensure that woodcock have a sustainable future."
The evening costs £15 per head, including drinks and canapes. To attend what promises to be a fascinating talk please contact: Mike Goode, The Elms, Rockhampton, Berkeley, Gloucestershire. GL13 9DR. For further information please email Max Kendry on mkendry@gwct.org.uk.
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Photocaption: GWCT research is finally uncovering the habits of the secretive woodcock.
Notes to editors
The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust – providing research-led conservation for a thriving countryside. The GWCT is an independent wildlife conservation charity which has carried out scientific research into Britain’s game and wildlife since the 1930s. We advise farmers and landowners on improving wildlife habitats. We employ 22 post-doctoral scientists and 50 other research staff with expertise in areas such as birds, insects, mammals, farming, fish and statistics. We undertake our own research as well as projects funded by contract and grant-aid from Government and private bodies. The Trust is also responsible for a number of Government Biodiversity Action Plan species and is lead partner for grey partridge and joint lead partner for brown hare and black grouse.
For information, contact:
Eleanor Williams
Telephone: 07592 025476
Email: press@gwct.org.uk