Birdr

Eurasian Curlew vs Great Snipe

Numenius arquata versus Gallinago media

Play a quiz with Eurasian Curlew and Great Snipe

Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata) Eurasian Curlew
Great Snipe (Gallinago media) Great Snipe

Media

Loading…

In short

The Eurasian Curlew is distinguished by its long, downward-curving bill, while the Great Snipe has a shorter, straight bill. Both species have cryptic plumage, but the curlew is notably larger and more elongated in shape compared to the stockier snipe.

Identification tips

Look for the curlew's long, curved bill and larger size. The Great Snipe has a shorter, straight bill and is more compact in shape. Size and bill shape are the most reliable field marks.

Size

The Eurasian Curlew is significantly larger than the Great Snipe, with a more elongated body and longer legs.

Plumage

Both species have cryptic, brownish plumage, but the curlew's plumage is generally more uniform, while the snipe may show more intricate patterns.

Submit a better description

Use the same sections as the comparison. Your text is published immediately.

The Eurasian Curlew is distinguished by its long, downward-curving bill, while the Great Snipe has a shorter, straight bill. Both species have cryptic plumage, but the curlew is notably larger and more elongated in shape compared to the stockier snipe.

Look for the curlew's long, curved bill and larger size. The Great Snipe has a shorter, straight bill and is more compact in shape. Size and bill shape are the most reliable field marks.

The Eurasian Curlew is significantly larger than the Great Snipe, with a more elongated body and longer legs.

Both species have cryptic, brownish plumage, but the curlew's plumage is generally more uniform, while the snipe may show more intricate patterns.

Discard your changes?

You have unsaved edits. If you leave now, those changes will be lost.

Eurasian Curlew · Great Snipe · My Tricky Birds