Latham's Snipe
NameLatham's Snipe
Common NameLatham's Snipe
Scientific NameGallinago hardwickii
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)47
Length (cm)31
Weight (g)160
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are mottled dark brown and black with buff streaks, providing excellent camouflage. Underparts are whitish with brown barring on the flanks. The head features prominent dark brown stripes alternating with buffy white stripes, including a distinct supercilium. The long bill is dark with a paler base.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent outside the breeding season. During breeding, it performs an aerial 'drumming' display, producing a whirring sound with its tail feathers. It also has a harsh 'kek-kek-kek' alarm call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in Japan and eastern Russia; migrates to eastern Australia (primarily southeastern Australia and Tasmania) and New Zealand for the non-breeding season.
Identifying FeaturesVery long, straight bill, Cryptic brown and black streaked plumage, Prominent dark and light stripes on the head, Secretive behavior in dense wetland vegetation
Description
Latham's Snipe is a medium-sized, cryptically patterned shorebird with a remarkably long, straight bill. It is a migratory species, breeding in East Asia and wintering primarily in eastern Australia and New Zealand, often found in dense wetland vegetation.
