The Moluccan woodcock, also known as the Obi woodcock, is a lowland wader endemic to Indonesia. Its distribution is restricted to Obi and possibly Bacan, two small islands in North Maluku. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring 32-40 centimetres, and is the largest of the woodcocks. Its conservation status is vulnerable due to severe habitat destruction on Obi.
Region
Maluku Islands
Typical Environment
Restricted to Obi and possibly nearby Bacan in North Maluku. It favors lowland primary and secondary rainforest, especially damp, shaded areas near streams and swampy flats. Birds are most often detected at dusk and dawn when they fly low along river corridors and forest edges in display flights. By day, they remain well hidden in dense undergrowth and leaf litter.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Obi woodcock, this elusive wader performs crepuscular display flights (“roding”) over rivers and clearings. It is the largest of the woodcocks and is highly cryptic on the forest floor. The species is threatened by logging and mining on Obi Island, but targeted surveys have clarified its habits and key habitats.
Temperament
secretive and crepuscular
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with buoyant, weaving display flights along waterways
Social Behavior
Largely solitary, forming pairs during the breeding season. Nests on the ground in concealed sites among leaf litter. Chicks are precocial and leave the nest shortly after hatching, following the adults to foraging areas.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
During display flights the male gives a sequence of soft grunts followed by thin, high whistles. Ground calls are infrequent and subdued, aiding in its secretive lifestyle.
