Common snipe

The common snipe, scientifically known as Gallinago gallinago, is a small wading bird found across the Old World. It thrives in marshes, bogs, tundra, and wet meadows throughout the Palearctic region. It is a migratory species, with European snipes wintering in Europe and Africa, while their Asian counterparts migrate to southern Asia. The common snipe bears a striking resemblance to Wilson's snipe, which is found in North America, and to other similar species in Asia.

These birds measure approximately 25-27 cm in length and are characterized by their mottled brown feathers, greenish-grey legs, and long, dark bills. Their excellent camouflage helps them blend into their muddy, wet environments, where they forage for insects, earthworms, and some plant material. During the breeding season, male common snipes perform impressive aerial displays and produce distinctive sounds by vibrating their tail feathers.

The common snipe nests on the ground, laying four eggs, which the female incubates. Both parents participate in caring for the young, which are ready to fledge in about 10-20 days. Although the species is not currently under global threat, some European populations are declining due to habitat loss.

Historically, the common snipe has been referred to by names such as "mire snipe" and "heather bleat." Despite being hunted as a gamebird in many regions, it is protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA).