In North America edit
Snipes are a real family of birds, but the snipe hunt is a practical joke where the victim is led astray into hunting a fictitious animal. It is commonly connected to summer camps and other outdoor camping experiences. [1].
Usually in the evening, snipe hunters are led to an outdoor location and given a bag or pillowcase with instructions to either wait silently or make strange noises to draw the animals. After leaving with the promise to pursue the snipe towards the newcomer, the other group members head back home or to camp, leaving the prank victim in the dark to realize they have been tricked and left “holding the bag.” [2].
A fruitless errand or expedition, the snipe hunt is a type of fools errand or wild-goose chase, with records dating back to the 1840s in the United States. It is a rite of passage that is frequently connected to organizations like the Boy Scouts. In the early 20th century, it was the most popular hazing ritual for boys at American summer camps. In camp life and children’s stories, the snipe hunt offers a chance to tease and welcome new members of the group. [6][7].
Like with tall tales, creative descriptions of the snipe are frequently used to set the scene for the prank. A squirrel-like bird with one red and one green eye, a small, black, furry animal that resembles a bird and only emerges during a full moon, and so on are some of the descriptions given for the snipe. According to American Folklore: An Encyclopedia:
A different version involves a theatrical delivery of a bag purportedly containing a captured snipe to the campsite following a group hunt; the snipe “escapes” before the bag is opened.
Introduction: Gags: Snipe Hunting
I have to admit, before I continue, that I fell for this. It’s unbelievable, but if you spend too much time on vacation in the mountains, anything can seem possible. This is a straightforward ruse to send one of your credulous friends on a quest to find the “Snipe.” Although there are real snipes, hunting them would be futile because they are mudbirds and their colors do not go well together.
Variations edit
In France, a comparable practical joke is referred to as “hunting the dahut.” [11] Although the prey description is different from that of the North American snipe hunt, the joke’s basic structure remains the same.
A joke akin to this is known as cazar gamusinos (hunting gamusinos) in Spain. The gamusino [es] is a made-up animal that has no clear definition. [12].
FAQ
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