Habitat Preferences of Woodcock in Southwestern Quebec

Abstract

Habitat preferences of American woodcock (Philohela minor) were studied in SW Quebec [Canada] between April-Nov. 1972. Courtship territories on fields averaged 0.4 ha and were at least 80.5 m apart. Woody vegetation influenced utilization of fields during and after the breeding season. Coverage by woody vegetation over 0.9 m tall was between 4-30% in 89% of used fields, and trees over 4.6 m never exceeded 8% coverage. Mixed and deciduous diurnal habitats were used heavily in the spring and summer; alder (Alnus rugosa) woods were used primarily in the autumn. Habitat changes did not account for this seasonal preference; alder woods may act as traditional staging areas. In coverts, the ground vegetation (0.1-0.9 m tall) and the amount of bare soil were responsible for woodcock dispersal. In preferred habitat, ground vegetation averaged 46 .+-. 10% coverage, and an average of 87 .+-. 11% of the soil was devoid of matted vegetation and debris.