Australian Painted-Snipe
NameAustralian Painted-Snipe
Common NameAustralian Painted-Snipe
Scientific NameRostratula australis
FamilyRostratulidae
Wingspan (cm)52
Length (cm)27
Weight (g)145
Plumage DetailsFemales have a dark chestnut head and neck with a prominent white stripe extending from behind the eye to the nape, and a white eye-ring. The back is dark olive-brown with intricate black barring and buff streaks, often with a metallic sheen. The underparts are white, separated from the dark upperparts by a broad white band across the breast. Males are duller, with a more mottled brown head and back. Both sexes have a long, reddish-tipped bill and yellowish-green legs.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can emit a soft, hooting 'coo-oo-oo' or a sharp 'kek' when flushed.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to mainland Australia, with a patchy distribution across suitable freshwater wetland habitats.
Identifying Featuresdistinctive head pattern (white eye-ring and stripe), long, reddish-tipped bill, sexual dimorphism (female brighter), secretive wetland habits, yellowish-green legs
Description
The Australian Painted-Snipe is a secretive, medium-sized wading bird typically found in freshwater wetlands. Females are more brightly colored than males, featuring a distinctive head pattern and a long, slightly decurved bill, often foraging in dense vegetation.
