What is a snipe?

A snipe is a wading bird that belongs to the family Scolopacidae. They are medium-sized birds with long, pointed bills and slender bodies. There are about 25 species of snipe found around the world, with the most common species being the common snipe.

Snipes are found in wetlands, marshes, and grasslands. They feed on insects, earthworms, and other invertebrates that they find in the soil. They are known for their unique courtship behavior, which includes a series of acrobatic flights and vocalizations.

The common snipe has a distinctive zigzag flight pattern and is known for its ability to fly erratically and change direction quickly, making it difficult to shoot or capture. They have a cryptic brown and gray plumage that helps them blend into their surroundings.

Snipes migrate long distances during their annual cycles, with some species traveling as far as 12,000 miles. They are important indicators of wetland health and are considered an important flagship species for conservation efforts.