African Snipe
NameAfrican Snipe
Common NameAfrican Snipe
Scientific NameGallinago nigripennis
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)46
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)145
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are mottled and streaked dark brown and buff, providing excellent camouflage. It has a pale belly, barred flanks, and a dark crown with pale central and superciliary stripes, along with a dark stripe through the eye.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive 'drumming' sound produced by vibrating tail feathers during display flights. It also emits harsh 'scap' calls when flushed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread resident across much of sub-Saharan Africa, typically found in suitable wetland habitats.
Identifying FeaturesVery long, straight bill, Cryptic brown and buff streaked plumage, Distinctive 'drumming' sound during display flight, Rapid, zigzag flight when flushed
Description
The African Snipe is a medium-sized, cryptically patterned wading bird with a remarkably long, straight bill. It is typically found probing for invertebrates in shallow water or muddy edges of wetlands, relying on its camouflage for protection.
