
Common Snipe
Common Snipe
30
13 hours ago
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The Common Snipe is a medium-sized, highly camouflaged wading bird recognized by its incredibly long bill and zig-zag flight pattern when flushed. It inhabits marshes, bogs, and wet grasslands.
Where to spot
Breeds across the northern parts of Europe, Asia, and North America (where it's sometimes called Wilson's Snipe). Winters broadly across Europe, Africa, Asia, and North and South America in suitable wetland habitats.
How to spot
Look for its plump body, striped head, and extremely long, straight bill. When flushed, it takes off with a characteristic 'scape!' call and flies in an erratic zig-zag pattern. Listen for the 'drumming' sound during breeding season display flights.
When to spot
Can be observed year-round in many parts of its range, especially during migration (spring and autumn) when they are more widespread. Best seen when flushed from wet grassy areas or during their aerial display in spring.
Where to spot
Breeds across the northern parts of Europe, Asia, and North America (where it's sometimes called Wilson's Snipe). Winters broadly across Europe, Africa, Asia, and North and South America in suitable wetland habitats.
How to spot
Look for its plump body, striped head, and extremely long, straight bill. When flushed, it takes off with a characteristic 'scape!' call and flies in an erratic zig-zag pattern. Listen for the 'drumming' sound during breeding season display flights.
When to spot
Can be observed year-round in many parts of its range, especially during migration (spring and autumn) when they are more widespread. Best seen when flushed from wet grassy areas or during their aerial display in spring.
During its display flight, the male Common Snipe produces a distinctive 'drumming' or 'winnowing' sound, created by air vibrating through specialized outer tail feathers as it dives.