The Auckland Island Snipe is a cryptic snipe endemic to the Auckland Islands, a remote subantarctic island group of New Zealand. It is a secretive inhabitant of tussock grasslands and forest.
Where to spot
Endemic to the Auckland Islands (a New Zealand subantarctic island group), specifically on smaller, predator-free offshore islets, inhabiting tussock grasslands and coastal scrub.
How to spot
Access to the Auckland Islands is highly restricted. Observation requires specialized scientific permits and expeditions to the smaller islets. Look for its cryptic plumage in dense vegetation; listening for its calls is often key.
When to spot
Can be observed year-round on its specific island habitats. Most active at dawn, dusk, or during the night when foraging.
Where to spot
Endemic to the Auckland Islands (a New Zealand subantarctic island group), specifically on smaller, predator-free offshore islets, inhabiting tussock grasslands and coastal scrub.
How to spot
Access to the Auckland Islands is highly restricted. Observation requires specialized scientific permits and expeditions to the smaller islets. Look for its cryptic plumage in dense vegetation; listening for its calls is often key.
When to spot
Can be observed year-round on its specific island habitats. Most active at dawn, dusk, or during the night when foraging.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Like other New Zealand snipes, this species has evolved in predator-free environments, making it vulnerable to introduced mammals like pigs and cats, which led to its extinction on the main Auckland Island before eradication efforts.
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