2026 Guided Hikes: Timberdoodling at Varina LandLab – SOLD OUT
March 16 @ 6:45 pm - 8:45 pm
$15
According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, “The American woodcock (Scolopax minor), also referred to as a “timberdoodle,” is a forest-dwelling shorebird that populates much of the Old Dominion and other southeastern states during the colder months, when harsh winter weather spurs them to migrate south from the northern extent of their range…Unlike its shorebird relatives, woodcock tend to be solitary and do not migrate in flocks, but are independently motivated to seek warmer, unfrozen habitats when the weather turns frigid, and often make many pit-stops on their journeys south.”
ABOUT THE HIKE
CRLC is excited to partner with birder, Dylan Slusarz, on this unique evening hike in search of the “Timberdoodle” (or American Woodcock) at the Varina LandLab Conservation Area. Participants will learn about the unique American Woodcock and their habitats and unique mating process that starts with their hallmark “peent” call at twilight and “sky dance” movements. This is an easy-level casual walk along wide gravel trails. No birding experience is necessary.
Participants are advised to bring a flashlight and wear close toed shoes as the trails can be uneven and muddy. Bring water, plus a light snack if desired.
ABOUT THE SITE
The Varina LandLab Conservation Area is a 353-acre public land located in eastern Henrico County and owned and stewarded by Capital Region Land Conservancy. The park features three trailheads located off Deep Bottom Road providing nearly five miles of trails through meadows, grasslands and along pine forests with views of the James River and Four Mile Creek. Visitors will also enjoy educational signage, benches and picnic tables, and a site-specific art installation by environmental sculptor, Reece Camp Carter.
ABOUT THE GUIDES:
Dylan Slusarz is a Richmond-based birder with seven years birding experience, including being founder of the Feminist Birding Club Chapter in Richmond and haivng performing a breeding bird point count surveys for the Chickahominy Tribe and at the Varina LandLab.
Ashley Moulton has 14 years of experience in ecological restoration and natural resource management in Virginia. She completed both her BS and MS in Biology at Virginia Commonwealth University with a focus on Plant Ecology and a minor in Urban and Regional Studies and Ecological Restoration from the University of Minnesota.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Registration: $15
- Advance registration is required.
- Space is limited to 15.
- Directions and waiver will be emailed to attendees upon registration.
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED
Questions? Email Christina@capitalregionland.org or call 804.745.3110
