Chatham Island Snipe

Coenocorypha pusilla is a small flightless-leaning snipe endemic to the Chatham Islands. It differs from other Coenocorypha snipe through genetics, range and details of plumage and bill proportions. It is mottled brown, buff and black with a long straight bill and short legs. Cryptic patterning makes a stationary bird almost disappear into leaf litter.

It survives on predator-free islands including Rangatira and Mangere in the Chathams. Dense forest floor, scrub and coastal vegetation provide cover. It probes damp soil and litter for worms, amphipods and insects. Birds are mainly crepuscular or nocturnal and often freeze when threatened.

The New Zealand classification is Nationally Vulnerable. Rangatira and Mangere have restricted access, so ordinary visitors have no reliable viewing opportunity.