The not-so-common common snipe

In normal circumstances in Gosforth Park we don't often see the sort of birds that like poking about in mud.  However, the recent prolonged drought has meant that the water level is very low and several more unusual birds have been attracted to explore the mud.  A few common snipes have been visiting in recent days and this one seemed either to be unaware of me or unworried by the noise of the camera.  I am used to hearing and seeing these birds at a distance but seeing this one close up was a chance to appreciate the beauty of its plumage.