Snares Island Snipe

Coenocorypha huegeli is a cryptic snipe endemic to the Snares Islands. It differs from Chatham Island and subantarctic snipe through genetics, island range and subtle structural characters. The plumage is intricately mottled brown, buff and black around a long straight bill. Short rounded wings limit sustained flight.

It occurs only on the predator-free Snares Islands south of New Zealand. Birds live under tussock, low forest and dense ground cover. They probe soil and litter for worms, amphipods and insects. Much activity occurs in dim light or at night.

The New Zealand classification is Naturally Uncommon. Tourist landings on the Snares are prohibited, so expedition ships offer no dependable view from offshore.