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Description
Horned Snipe
Size: 30cm in length, 20cm in height.
Diet: Aquatic invertebrates (mainly small crustaceans), small fish.
Description: One of the most common birds of the shores of the larger island is the Horned Snipe (Taurocryptes diablus). Flocks of dozens can be found probing the mud for sand fleas, worms, or small crabs. Living in groups allows them to more easily spot oncoming predators. They are poor fliers and spend most of their time searching for food on the ground; they may dive in the estuaries and shallows for invertebrates and small fish when coastal food is scarce. They have a mottled brownish coat, and white patches behind the eyes. Their most distinct appearance is a long fleshy horn-like structure growing above each eye. Black in colour for most of the year, it flushes red for males during the breeding season and is used as display structures. During this time is the only time horned snipes decide to be vocal, and they sing to attract mates, their calls sound similar to grinding metal. The female lays 2-3 eggs in a secluded area where she and her mate will care for them and the hatchlings. There is only 1 species of Taurocryptes.

Description
Horned Snipe
Size: 30cm in length, 20cm in height.
Diet: Aquatic invertebrates (mainly small crustaceans), small fish.
Description: One of the most common birds of the shores of the larger island is the Horned Snipe (Taurocryptes diablus). Flocks of dozens can be found probing the mud for sand fleas, worms, or small crabs. Living in groups allows them to more easily spot oncoming predators. They are poor fliers and spend most of their time searching for food on the ground; they may dive in the estuaries and shallows for invertebrates and small fish when coastal food is scarce. They have a mottled brownish coat, and white patches behind the eyes. Their most distinct appearance is a long fleshy horn-like structure growing above each eye. Black in colour for most of the year, it flushes red for males during the breeding season and is used as display structures. During this time is the only time horned snipes decide to be vocal, and they sing to attract mates, their calls sound similar to grinding metal. The female lays 2-3 eggs in a secluded area where she and her mate will care for them and the hatchlings. There is only 1 species of Taurocryptes.