SPECIES LIST

Snipe

In the 1970s thousands of Snipe wintered on the Levels and many bred here. Now winter numbers are shockingly down maybe to low hundreds or even just tens. There is a chance that some might breed locally but we are not really sure if they still do. Hidden by their beautifully effective camouflage, they feed by probing soft ground between tussocks in pools and along ditch edges. Normally Snipe go unnoticed. They become disconcertingly evident, when we get into the fields on foot. Alert to our approach they freeze, invisible on the ground till we are almost upon them. At the last second and with a startling screech they rocket up and zig-zag away in seconds. Only Snipe and the rarer Jack Snipe do this. You can often pick them up to confirm identification as they are away and adopting a steadier flight. Then the long, straight bill can be seen. Often two or more birds are put up in quick succession and join up as they fly on to an alternative feeding place.