Magellanic snipe facts for kids

The Magellanic snipe (Gallinago magellanica) is a small, strong wader bird. Waders are birds that often walk in shallow water or on wet ground to find food. This bird is known for its long, thin beak, which it uses to probe in mud.

About the Magellanic Snipe

The Magellanic snipe is a fascinating bird. It was first described in 1828 by Phillip Parker King. This bird is closely related to the South American snipe. For a long time, scientists thought they were the same species. Now, they are considered different.

Where the Snipe Lives

The Magellanic snipe lives in South America. It breeds in areas south of central Argentina and central Chile. Its favorite breeding spots are wet, grassy plains or peat bogs. Peat bogs are wetlands with lots of decaying plant matter.

Migration and Home

Unlike some other snipes, the Magellanic snipe is a migratory bird. This means it travels long distances at certain times of the year. In winter, it flies north. It leaves places like Tierra del Fuego completely. The South American snipe, however, usually stays in one place all year. It is a "resident" bird.

What the Snipe Looks Like

The Magellanic snipe has some unique features. It has longer wings than the South American snipe. Its feathers are also warmer in color and more buff. Buff is a yellowish-tan color. These differences help scientists tell the two species apart.

How the Snipe Reproduces

Magellanic snipes are careful about where they build their nests. They make a small dip in the ground. This nest is very well hidden among the plants.

Both parent birds help to incubate the eggs. Incubation means keeping the eggs warm until they hatch. They usually lay two buff-colored eggs. The eggs hatch after about 19 days.

The baby snipes are called precocial. This means they are quite developed when they hatch. They can leave the nest very soon after they are born. They can walk and find food on their own, even though their parents still care for them.

Courtship and Sounds

During courtship, the male Magellanic snipe performs a special display. This is how he tries to attract a mate. He flies high in circles in the sky. Then, he makes shallow dives. As he dives, his tail feathers vibrate. This creates a distinctive sound. People call this sound "winnowing." It sounds a bit like drumming or humming.

See also

In Spanish: Becacina magallánica para niños