Snipe are medium sized birds with a ridiculously long beak. They are a widespread species in the UK, with densities at their highest on northern upland areas. Snipe are usually shy birds and will typically be found skulking around well-vegetated wetland areas. During the breeding season snipe will show themselves more readily, particularly on early spring mornings when their display flights can be heard as well as seen. Snipe will climb high and then dive almost vertically while allowing their tail feathers to vibrate, thus creating a loud drumming noise that can be heard from a surprisingly large distance.