COMMON SNIPE FACTS
DISTRIBUTION: Most worldwide populations are highly migratory, breeding in Iceland and across much of Europe, Russia and northern
Asia. Overwinters in Africa and southern Asia.
UK DISTRIBUTION: British populations are largely resident or only partially migratory. Can be found across the country but more numerous in the north and Ireland.
IUCN RED LIST STATUS: Least
Concern, though decreasing globally
HABITAT: Prefers wetland and flooded cultivated areas. Breeds in moorland and rough pastures in upland areas.
FOOD: Mainly insects, earthworms and small crustaceans; some plant matter.
BREEDING: Pairing takes place after aerobatic display flights.
NESTING: The nest is little more than a depression in the ground lined with grasses, located in a well-hidden location. Only the female incubates the eggs, which hatch after about 20 days. Both parents look after the brood, taking responsibility for half each. The young fledge around 20 days.
CLUTCH SIZE: Normally four eggs
INCUBATION TIME: 18–21 days
LENGTH: (average) 25–27cm
WINGSPAN: (average) 44–47cm
WEIGHT: (average) 80–140g
LIFESPAN: (average) Normally 3-6 years
FLIGHT SPEED: Up to 60 mph
SHOOTING SEASONS: England, Wales & Scotland: 12 August–31 January. Northern Ireland: 1 September–31 January