IA Common Snipe Hunting Guide

Also known as: Wilson's snipe, Jacksnipe

Wilson's snipe is a small, stocky shorebird. The generic name Gallinago is Neo-Latin for a woodcock or snipe from Latin gallina, "hen" and the suffix -ago, "resembling". The specific name delicata is Latin for "dainty".

Life History

Gallinago gallinago delicataOrd, 1825 Wilson's snipe(Gallinago delicata) is a small, stockyshorebird.[2]Thegeneric nameGallinagoisNeo-Latinfor awoodcockorsnipefromLatingallina, "hen" and the suffix-ago, "resembling". Thespecific namedelicatais Latin for "dainty".[3] Thisspecieswas considered to be asubspeciesof thecommon snipe(G. gallinago) until 2003 when it was given its own species status, though not all authorities recognized this immediately.[4]Wilson's snipe differs from the latter species in having a narrower white trailing edge to the wings, and eight pairs oftail feathersinstead of the typical seven of the common snipe.[5]Its common name commemorates the American ornithologistAlexander Wilson. Adults are 23–28 cm (9.1–11.0 in) in length with a 39–45 cm (15–18 in) wingspan. Weight ranges from 2.8–5.2 oz (79–147 g).[6]They have short greenish-grey legs and a very long straight dark bill. The body is mottled brown on top and pale underneath. They have a dark stripe through the eye, with light stripes above and below it. The wings are pointed.

Status, Trends & Threats

Wilson's snipe was reduced near the end of the 19th century by hunting andhabitat destruction. However, this bird remains fairly common and not considered threatened by theIUCN, although local populations are sensitive to large-scale draining of wetland.[2][7]

Hunting Season

Sep 5 - Nov 30 (2026 season). HIP registration required.

References

• Iowa — Common Snipe