Sniper, Origin of Snipers
The snipe was a bird prized for its delicacy in medieval England. However, hunters had a tough time catching the bird because of its alertness and speed. As firearms improved, hunters found it easier to shoot the birds, but only by hiding and waiting for the snipe to come within range. Soon, hunters who were particularly adept at catching the bird became known as snipers.
(yet another one from MindlessCrap.com.. )
I have found this one several places, so I think it's true.
The snipe was a bird prized for its delicacy in medieval England. However, hunters had a tough time catching the bird because of its alertness and speed. As firearms improved, hunters found it easier to shoot the birds, but only by hiding and waiting for the snipe to come within range. Soon, hunters who were particularly adept at catching the bird became known as snipers.
(yet another one from MindlessCrap.com.. )
I have found this one several places, so I think it's true.