Jack Snipe
Scientific Name: Lymnocryptes minimusMaltese Name: Cinkonja
Family: Sandpipers and allies (Scolopacidae)
Occurence: Scarce
Breeds in Malta: No
Overview:
The Jack Snipe is a small stocky wader. It is the smallest snipe; adults are smaller than Common Snipe and have relatively shorter bill. The body is mottled brown on top and pale underneath. The wings are pointed and narrow, and yellow back stripes are visible in flight. The most distinct feature is their distinctive bobbing movement, as if the bird is on springs, sometimes made even while the bird sleeps. The head pattern of Jack Snipe differs from Common Snipe. They forage in soft mud, probing or picking up food by sight. They mainly eat insects and earthworms, also plant material. The male performs an aerial display during courtship, during which it makes a distinctive sound like a galloping horse.
Status:
Scarce migrant and winter visitor, mostly seen in singles or in couples.
When to See:
Mid-October till early-April.
Where to See:
Best place to see is at Simar Nature Reserve. Seen also at Ghadira Nature Reserve. May be flushed from Valleys and Garrigue areas.
Photographs:
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Jack Snipe, Simar Nature Reserve |
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