Key information
Jack snipes are smaller than snipe, with a shorter bill. It is a secretive bird and when approached it tends to crouch down, relying on its camouflaged plumage, only flying at the last minute. It will fly low and rapidly drop down again, unlike snipes which zig-zag and then flies off high. When feeding it has a characteristic 'bouncing' motion, as if on a spring.
What they eat:
Insects, worms and snails.
Measurements:
- Length:
- 17-19cm
- Wingspan:
- 38-42cm
- Weight:
- 35-73g
Population:
- UK wintering:
- 110,000 birds
Identifying features:
Jack snipe
