Habitat:
Wetlands, marshes, and floodplain meadows

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Great Snipe is an elegant wader, easily recognized by its mottled brown and beige plumage and two long white bands visible on its wings, from which it gets its name. This species, slightly larger than the Common Snipe, inhabits marshes, wetlands, and riverbanks in Europe and Asia, where it primarily feeds on worms, insects, and small crustaceans found in the mud. The Great Snipe is a particularly discreet bird, often blending into its environment. Migratory, it covers long distances between its breeding grounds in Europe and its wintering sites in North Africa and Asia. Although less abundant than other waders, the Great Snipe is affected by habitat loss and changes in the hydrological regime in its breeding areas.

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

Photography tips:
Approach slowly and discreetly, using a telephoto lens, to avoid disturbing the double snipe, which can fly away quickly if it feels threatened. Photograph early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is soft and the snipe is more active in the marshes or wet meadows searching for food. Capture moments of foraging: The double snipe uses its long bill to probe the mud in search of invertebrates, an interesting activity to photograph. Be patient: This species is quite discreet, so wait until it is visible and engaged in its natural behavior. Although the double snipe is not currently endangered, it remains sensitive to habitat disturbance, especially during the breeding season. Respect its natural environment and follow local conservation rules to minimize your impact on this species.