Each summer the migratory waders, Latham’s Snipe, migrate south from their breeding grounds in Japan to spend the summer in southern Australia. A few regularly select the reed beds and swamp at Banyule Flats and this year is no exception. Up to four have been spotted as the swamp dries up and the solitary birds emerge onto the muddy margins. Their camouflage colouring normally makes them difficult to spot, but out in the open their long bill is a giveaway. During March they set off on their long journey back to Japan via the East Asia Flyway.