Snipe

This secretive shorebird, identified by its squat stature and cryptic plumage, boasts an elongated bill. It thrives in various wetland habitats, spanning from meadows to saltmarshes. Often discreet, it forages by probing muddy grounds near reeds or grassy covers. Startlingly, it takes flight with a rough call when disturbed at close quarters. Breeding individuals stand out more prominently, seen on fence posts. During display flights, they swoop from great heights emitting a pulsating, bleating sound through their fanned tails. In Asia, confusion may arise with Pin-tailed, Swinhoe''s, and Latham's Snipes, similar species lacking the white trailing edge of the Common Snipe and displaying slower, less erratic flight patterns.