Hello, everyone! Meet the Common Snipe, a bird often spotted in paddy fields and wetlands. Let’s delve a bit into the world of this fascinating bird.
The Common Snipe, measuring about 25-27 cm in length, is smaller than a pigeon and possesses a long beak. Its brown and dark brown plumage acts as natural camouflage. In Japan, it is known as a migratory bird visible in spring and autumn, and in regions south of central Honshu, it is a familiar winter bird that overwinters. Particularly, it’s an indispensable part of the aquatic ecosystems, such as paddy fields and wetlands.
It has an omnivorous diet, primarily animal-based, consuming insects, crustaceans, and seeds. What’s interesting is its feeding method using its long beak. The snipe skillfully employs a technique called “bill-tip opening,” moving only the tip of its beak to catch prey in the mud. The sight of it thrusting its long beak into the mud in harvested rice fields, vigorously feeding, or spiraling up into the air when sensing danger, is well-known in haiku as a seasonal word.
The snipe’s call is also unique. It alerts to danger with a hoarse “jeet” sound and, during the breeding season, woos with a “chik-chik” chirp. The breeding season of the snipe is quite romantic. The male performs a beautiful aerial display to win over the female.
Contrary to being considered nocturnal, the Common Snipe is actually active during the day in safe areas. Thus, on sunny days, you might spot them bustling around in the paddy fields. Next time you visit a rice field, pay attention to the Common Snipe. Their journey might just take us on a journey of the heart as well! See you next time.
