Common Snipe vs Wilson's Snipe

In short

Common Snipe and Wilson's Snipe are very similar in appearance, both having cryptic brown plumage with intricate patterns. The most reliable field mark is the tail: Wilson's Snipe has a narrower white trailing edge on the tail feathers compared to Common Snipe. Vocalizations also differ, with Wilson's Snipe having a distinctive 'winnowing' sound during display flights.

Identification tips

• Tail pattern: Look for the narrower white trailing edge on Wilson's Snipe's tail feathers.
• Vocalizations: Listen for the 'winnowing' sound of Wilson's Snipe during display flights.
• Plumage contrast: Wilson's Snipe may appear slightly more contrasting on the back.
• Habitat overlap: Both species can be found in similar wetland habitats, so rely more on visual and auditory cues.

Size

Both species are similar in size, with no significant differences that are easily observable in the field.

Plumage

Both snipes have brown, intricately patterned plumage. However, Wilson's Snipe tends to have a slightly more contrasting pattern on the back and a narrower white trailing edge on the tail feathers compared to Common Snipe.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar behaviors, such as probing in mud for food and performing aerial display flights. However, Wilson's Snipe's display flights include a distinctive 'winnowing' sound.

Habitat

Both species inhabit wetlands, marshes, and bogs. There is significant overlap in their preferred habitats, making habitat alone an unreliable distinguishing feature.

Voice

Wilson's Snipe is known for its 'winnowing' sound during display flights, created by air rushing over its tail feathers. Common Snipe also performs display flights but with a different sound, often described as a 'drumming' or 'bleating'.