Jameson's Snipe
NameJameson's Snipe
Common NameJameson's Snipe
Scientific NameGallinago jamesoni
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)42.5
Length (cm)30
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is intricately patterned with dark brown to black upperparts heavily streaked and barred with buff and rufous, providing superb camouflage. The underparts are whitish with dense dark barring on the flanks and breast. It features a dark eye-stripe contrasting with a pale supercilium, and a long, straight, dark bill.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a harsh 'kek-kek-kek' or a rasping 'chrrrp'. During display flights, it produces a distinctive 'drumming' sound caused by air rushing through modified outer tail feathers.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is found in the high Andes mountains of South America, ranging from Colombia and Ecuador, south through Peru and Bolivia, to extreme northwestern Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesLong, straight bill, Cryptic brown, black, and buff streaked plumage, Stocky body shape, Prefers high-altitude wetland and páramo habitats, Distinctive drumming sound during aerial displays
Description
Jameson's Snipe is a medium-sized, stocky wader with excellent camouflage, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its high-altitude wetland environment. It is typically secretive, foraging by probing its long bill into soft ground for invertebrates.
