Common Snipe
About shooting common snipe
The common snipe is one of the hardest birds to hit with a shotgun. It takes off in a zigzag flight that makes it nearly impossible to predict its direction in the first few seconds.
The hunt involves walking up wetland areas, preferably with a dog. The snipe sits tight and flushes right in front of your feet with a sharp call. The shooting window is brief before the bird disappears in its unpredictable flight.
This is hunting that demands a lot of practice, and it gives a great sense of accomplishment when you connect. Many experienced hunters consider the snipe the most difficult bird to shoot.
Fine shot (7–8) in 20-gauge is well suited.
Open Season
10 Sep – 23 Dec
Hunting is limited to areas south of Nordland county.
Weight
80–120 g
Distribution
The common snipe breeds on bogs and wetlands throughout Norway. The densest populations are in the mountain areas and along the coast. In autumn the birds gather in the lowlands before migrating south.
Terrain
Bogs, wetlands and salt marshes. The snipe probes soft ground with its bill for worms and larvae. Shallow water with a muddy bottom is typical habitat.
Identification
Mottled brown with long, pale stripes on the back. Long, straight bill. Hard to spot on the ground.
Fieldcraft Tips
Walk slowly through bogs and wetlands. Snipe sit tight. Shoot instinctively at the first change of direction.
Shooting Common Snipe by county
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