Identification - It is slightly larger than a robin. The very long thin but straight bill, striped head, and the tan stripes on the upper back are good field marks. Its belly is white. It flies in a zig-zag pattern when flushed. Sexes are similar in appearance.
Morsels - As part of its aerial display, the snipe also makes a loud winnowing sound. It flies up very high in the air, then dives with its tail feathers spread open. The air rushing through the outer tail feathers makes this unusual sound. This territorial sound is most often heard over their nesting areas but it can also be heard on the wintering grounds.