Common Snipes are wading birds characterized by their short legs and neck. Their long bills, which measure about 6.4 cm, are approximately twice the size of their heads and are adapted for probing for food. Males typically weigh around 130 grams, while females are smaller, ranging from 78 to 110 grams. They have a wingspan of 39 to 45 cm and an average body length of 26.7 cm, with a range of 23 to 28 cm. In their juvenile stage, Common Snipes are patterned with black and brown and feature yellow-tinted stripes along their backs, with white feathers on the underside. As they mature, they lose the yellow tint and become brown with black stripes and white belly feathers.