Snipes – Group Overview

Snipes are medium-sized wading birds known for their cryptic plumage, elongated bills, and secretive behaviour. They are typically associated with marshes, wet grasslands, flooded fields, and the edges of shallow wetlands, where their camouflage allows them to blend seamlessly into their surroundings.

Snipes belong to the family Scolopacidae, which also includes sandpipers, godwits, and curlews. Their long, sensitive bills are adapted for probing soft mud in search of insects, worms, and other invertebrates, often feeding by touch rather than sight.

When flushed, snipes are well known for their sudden, erratic zig-zag flight, making them challenging to observe and identify. Subtle differences in plumage, structure, and behaviour distinguish the various species, particularly during migration and wintering periods.

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This section features photographs of snipes recorded across wetland habitats, highlighting their camouflage, feeding behaviour, and seasonal presence.

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Licensing & Prints

Selected photographs of snipes are available for licensing and editorial use.
View Snipes Collection