Habitat:
Marshes, rice paddies, wetlands

Activity period :
Active at dawn and dusk, ideal moments for observation.

Identification and description:
The Greater Painted-snipe, Rostratula benghalensis, is a medium-sized wading bird known for its distinctive plumage and unique behavior. Females, larger and more colorful than males, display vibrant shades of brown, white, and black. This bird favors wetlands, such as marshes and rice paddies, where it feeds mainly on insects, crustaceans, and seeds. The Greater Painted-snipe is noted for its unusual breeding behavior: females are polyandrous and take the lead in courtship. They lay their eggs in shallow nests, which males incubate. Although widely distributed in sub-Saharan Africa, South, and Southeast Asia, this species is sometimes threatened by the loss of its natural habitat.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Greater Painted-snipe, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. Patience is key, as this bird is suspicious and prefers dense wetlands where it can easily hide. Look for low-light moments, such as dusk, when the bird is more active. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and adjust ISO settings to compensate for low-light conditions. Be prepared to wait and observe carefully to capture unique behaviors, such as courtship displays.