Common Snipe

17 hours ago

Spotted

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

How to spot

When to spot

Credits: TheOtherKev

Credits: vinsky2002

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.

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Recently spotted: 15814 (Seen in the last 3 months)

Last spotted: 17 hours ago

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28 observations

Remi

1 day ago

Common Snipe

Oosterend, Noord-Holland

+30

10 minuten zaten we te staren op een bosje waar 1 achter zat. Toen we het opgaven en door ging zaten er op een eilandje nog geen 40 meter verder meer dan 40 bij elkaar 😅