Jack snipe

Description

The jack snipe (Lymnocryptes minimus) is a small stocky wader.It is the smallest snipe,and the only member of the genus Lymnocryptes.Features such as its sternum make it quite distinct from other snipes or woodcocks.Adults are smaller than common snipe and have relatively shorter bill.Length is 18–25 cm (7.1–9.8 in),wingspan is 30–41 cm (12–16 in) and weight is 33–73 g (1.2–2.6 oz).The body is mottled brown on top and pale underneath.They have a dark stripe through the eye.The wings are pointed and narrow,and yellow back stripes are visible in flight.When seen,the distinctive bobbing movement,as if the bird is on springs,has an almost hypnotic quality.The head pattern of jack snipe differs from common snipe and other species in the genus Gallinago,in that there is no central crown-stripe;instead,there are two pale lateral crown-stripes,which are separated from the supercilium by an area of dark plumage.