More about the Specialist Group

The Woodcock and Snipe Specialist Group (WSSG) is a network of woodcock and snipe specialists (both scientists and non-scientists) concerned with the study, monitoring, management and conservation of the woodcock and snipe species populations.

The first aim of WSSG is to provide up-to-date knowledge on eight woodcock and 18 snipe species in the world. It is also expected to encourage new research and facilitate contact between researchers. WSSG plays the role of expertise platform for biologists, conservationists and wildlife managers interested in woodcocks and snipes for sharing and exchange of information. As many of these are game species, the final objective is to ensure the sustainable use of the populations. For some species (Eurasian Woodcock, American Woodcock) studies and monitoring have been running for several decades.

Due to the distribution of the species, WSSG concentrates on all continents. However, the major part of the actions is carried out in Europe and North America. In future, special effort would be made to improve knowledge of the African, South American and Asian species.

WSSG membership is open without charge to woodcock and snipe specialists worldwide. There are currently about 146 members from 34 countries around the world. WSSG members are automatically enrolled in the WSSG list and receive the annual Newsletter. Some become members of the IUCN Species Survival Commission (at this moment: 35, from 18 countries).

WSSG organises a Workshop every 5-6 years and publishes an annual Newsletter.