Jack Snipe
Lymnocryptes minimus
Length 19cm

Appreciably smaller than snipe. Bill shorter than relative but plumage similar although stripes on head more distinctive. Fairly common winter visitor to marshes in Britain and Ireland from October to March. Easily missed because feeds unobtrusively among vegetation and very reluctant to fly, preferring to crouch motionless until danger passes. If flushed, however, rises silently and drops back into cover after short distance. Pumps body up and down as it walks.