Common Snipe
NameCommon Snipe
Common NameCommon Snipe
Scientific NameGallinago gallinago
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)47
Length (cm)26
Weight (g)110
Plumage DetailsPlumage is a complex pattern of streaky brown, black, and buff on the upperparts, providing excellent camouflage. The belly is pale, and the head features distinct dark and pale stripes, including a dark eye-stripe, a pale supercilium, and a dark crown stripe. The bill is very long and dark.
Vocalization / CallIts most common call is a harsh, raspy 'scape' sound given when flushed. During its aerial display, males produce a distinctive 'drumming' sound with their outer tail feathers as they dive.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, tundra
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Eurasia and northern North America, breeding in temperate and subarctic regions and migrating to southern Europe, Africa, and southern Asia for winter. In North America, it is often considered a separate species, Wilson's Snipe (Gallinago delicata).
Identifying FeaturesVery long, straight bill, Cryptic streaky brown plumage, Distinctive striped head pattern, Short legs, Erratic, zig-zag flight when flushed
Description
The Common Snipe is a medium-sized, cryptically patterned wading bird with a remarkably long, straight bill. It typically forages in shallow water or mud, probing for invertebrates with its sensitive bill. When flushed, it flies in an erratic, zig-zag pattern.
