Pin-tail or common snipe help please. Muscat, Oman, March 26, 2024 (1 Viewer)

[bhutjoe]

Hi, attached are a series of photos taken around 4:30 pm at the mouth of the Muscat River - which is more like a puddle this time of year.

For me, in favour of pin-tail are the head shape, with a roundish head and the peak appearing near the front. Also, though I am unsure if this helps, the barring on the flanks is quite minor.

I cannot tell if the tail is considered short, which would mean pintail I think, or long, in which case common. I cannot make out the width of the outer tail feathers but maybe someone with keener eyes than mine can for which I would be most grateful.
Unfortunately, they were busy feeding and did not spread their tail or raise their wings while I was there.
There are at least 2 snipe, as indicated by the pair in one photo. Wining the loto would be one of each of course
But maybe the best I can hope for is it is definitely one or the other.
Any comments, criticisms or suggestions most welcome.
thank you in advance
steve

 

[Prestdj]

photo 8681 shows quite a long tail, also the scapulars look dark centered so common snipe for me but keep up the good work always nice to see your photos

 

[bhutjoe]

Thank you Prestdj, i wasn't sure how long "long" was so pointing out which photo shows the long tail is quite helpful. That was very nice of you to comment on my photos. I think my photos make everyone else's look quite professional
I was not aware of the scapular id point so thank you for that as well.
much appreciated
steve

 

[Prestdj]

this shows the primary projection well the "macmillan guide to europe and middle eastern birds" first copy got sent to birder in iran as he wanted a bird book to id what he saw so bought a new one, for a 28 year old book its still a great addition to the collection

 

[bhutjoe]

That is great!! thank you very much.
steve