Gallinago delicata (Ord, 1825)

Scientific Name

This species has the scientific name Gallinago delicata (Ord, 1825).

Size

Adult individuals measure 23–28 cm (9.1–11.0 in) in total length, with a wingspan of 39–45 cm (15–18 in).

Weight

Adult body weight ranges from 2.8–5.2 oz (79–147 g).

External Morphology

They have short greenish-grey legs and a very long, straight, dark bill.

Plumage Coloration

Their upper body is mottled brown, and their underparts are pale.

Head Markings

They have a dark stripe running through the eye, paired with light stripes above and below this dark eye stripe.

Wing Shape

Their wings are pointed.

Identification References

The following published sources cover the field identification of this species: Carey, Geoff and Urban Olsson (1995). Field identification of Common, Wilson's, Pintail and Swinhoe's Snipes. Birding World 8(5): 179–190; Leader, Paul (1999). Identification forum: Common Snipe and Wilson's Snipe Birding World 12(9): 371–4; Reid, Marin (2008). Identification of Wilson's and Common Snipe British Birds 101(4): 189–200.