Adult Snipe: Gallinago megala (Asian Snipe)
This species closely resembles the Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago), with the most noticeable difference being the tail. The Asian Snipe possesses 26-28 tail feathers. Of these, the central 10 are normally developed. The lateral feathers are very slender, only 2 mm wide, and short. These feathers are gray or pale brown, with white tips and inner webs. They are often obscured by the undertail coverts.
The Asian Snipe also has a shorter bill, with a slightly higher base compared to the Common Snipe. The white coloration on the outer web of the first primary feather is reduced or absent. The eyes are dark brown. The bill is horn-brown or pale black at the base, with a dull yellowish-green tip. Legs are pale yellow, tinged with green or pale grayish-green.
Measurements:
- Wing: 123 – 140 mm
- Tail: 54 – 68 mm
- Tarsus: 29 – 31 mm
- Bill: 57 – 61 mm
Distribution:
The Asian Snipe breeds in Northwest Russia and Eastern Siberia. In winter, it can be found in India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, the Philippines, Borneo, Sumatra, Java, and neighboring islands.
In Vietnam:
This species occurs throughout the lowlands, midlands, and mountainous regions of Vietnam.