Great Snipe
NameGreat Snipe
Common NameGreat Snipe
Scientific NameGallinago media
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)47
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)180
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is intricately patterned with dark brown, black, and buff streaks and bars across the back, wings, and flanks, providing excellent camouflage. The breast is heavily streaked, fading to white on the belly. It has a pale supercilium above a dark eye-stripe, and a dark crown stripe.
Vocalization / CallDuring its lekking display, the Great Snipe produces a distinctive 'galloping' sound, a series of clicks, croaks, and whirring noises. Outside of the lek, it is generally silent or produces soft, low calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland, tundra
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeBreeds in wet meadows, bogs, and tundra across northern Europe and western Siberia. It undertakes a long-distance migration to winter in sub-Saharan Africa, primarily in grasslands and wetlands.
Identifying FeaturesVery long, straight bill, Cryptic brown and black streaked plumage, Stocky body with relatively short legs, Broad white trailing edge to the wings (most visible in flight), Elaborate lekking display behavior
Description
The Great Snipe is a medium-sized, cryptically patterned wader characterized by its long, straight bill and stocky build. It is known for its elaborate lekking display where males gather to perform vocal and visual courtship rituals.
