Common Snipe

📍 Local Expert Tip

“The Snipe is a winter visitor from October to April with a peak in January and February. Often difficult to see but on high tides flocks of  more than 100 get flushed out of the salt marsh in the RSPB Adur section and become more visible when viewing from the Norfolk Bridge.”

🔍 Overview

A cryptic and well-camouflaged wader, the Common Snipe is found in Sussex wetlands and marshes, especially during winter and migration.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Medium wader (23–28 cm)
Plumage: Mottled brown with golden stripes
Distinctive Marks: Long straight bill, striped crown
Bill: Very long, straight
Tail: Short with pointed shape
Flight: Rapid zigzag escape

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Seen at Pulborough Brooks, and Adur Valley.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Aerial drumming display in spring. “Chick-chick” call when flushed.

🍴 Diet

Feeds by probing soft mud for worms and invertebrates.

📸 Birding Tip

Scan damp grassy margins in winter. May remain still and flush suddenly.