Puna Snipe
NamePuna Snipe
Common NamePuna Snipe
Scientific NameGallinago andina
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)42.5
Length (cm)30
Weight (g)125
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark brown and black, heavily mottled and streaked with buff, creating a cryptic pattern. The head features distinct dark and buffy stripes. Underparts are paler, often whitish on the belly, with dark barring on the flanks. The long, straight bill is dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a rasping 'chup' call. During display flights, males produce a distinctive 'winnowing' sound created by vibrating outer tail feathers.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the high Andes of southern Peru, Bolivia, northern Chile, and northwestern Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesVery long, straight bill, Cryptic brown and black mottled plumage, Distinct striped head pattern, Short legs, Typically found in high-altitude wetlands
Description
The Puna Snipe is a medium-sized, cryptically patterned shorebird found in high-altitude Andean wetlands. It possesses a remarkably long, straight bill used for probing mud in search of invertebrates. Its mottled brown plumage provides excellent camouflage against its marshy habitat.
