A small, brown, streaky bird, it is the commonest songbird in upland areas and its high, piping call is a familiar sound. In flight it shows white outer tail feathers and in the breeding season it has a fluttering 'parachute' display flight. In winter they are quite gregarious and gather in small flocks, often invisible among the vegetation, suddenly flying up with typical jerky flight.
Meadow pipit numbers in the UK have been declining since the mid-1970s, resulting in this species being included on the amber list of conservation concern.
Key ID Features:
Lighter and browner looking than Rock or Tree Pipit, almost like a miniature thrush.
Heavily streaked on upperparts and streaking on buff breast reaches down to flanks.
Pale pinkish legs and feet with long hind claw.
Song is an accelerating series of 'sips' rather than the decelerating song of Tree Pipit.
Overview
Scientific name: Anthus pratensis
Family: Pipits and wagtails (Motacillidae)
Where to see them:
Found across the UK but commonest in the west and north. In winter it moves south, to more lowland areas and becomes much commoner in the southern half of the UK. Found in open country - upland moors to saltmarshes in summer, more agricultural land and marshes in winter. Will even come to suburban parks and playing fields.
Seen in UK:
All year round. In summer most common in upland areas which become deserted in winter as birds move to more lowland habitats, some migrating to Continental Europe.
What they eat
Insects - flies, beetles and moths - and spiders.
Text (c) RSPB, used with permission
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Photographer: Tim Tapley
