Image via Macaulay Library
Imperial Snipe
- Scientific name
- Gallinago imperialis
- Family
- Scolopacidae
- Conservation status
- Vulnerable
- Habitat
- Wetland marsh
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Pointed
Where it came from
The Imperial Snipe, scientifically classified as Gallinago imperialis, remains one of the most enigmatic members of the Scolopacidae family. Historically known from only a handful of specimens collected in the Andes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was feared extinct for decades. Its rediscovery in the late 20th century provided ornithologists with the first opportunity to study its unique physiology, which features highly distinct pointed wings and a pointed tail that aid in navigating its dense, high-altitude cloud forest habitat.
The bird's design is an evolutionary marvel, specifically adapted for the treacherous and foggy terrain of the northern Andes. Ornithologists often note that its cryptic coloration and elusive behavior were the primary reasons for its long absence from the scientific record. Because it remains so rarely observed in the wild, the Imperial Snipe occupies a legendary status among birders and naturalists, representing the enduring mystery of remote, inaccessible ecosystems.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Imperial Snipe
Imperial Snipe is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Imperial Snipe on collecto.rs?
Imperial Snipe doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Imperial Snipe?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Imperial Snipe catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Imperial Snipe is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
