Plain-backed Pipit

Overview

The plain-backed pipit, or plain pipit (Anthus leucophrys), is a medium-sized passerine bird and a resident breeder in Africa south of the Sahara Desert. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• 17 cm large pipit, sturdier and darker than the similar tawny pipit, standing more upright
• Faintly streaked grey-brown above and pale below with light breast streaking
• Strong white supercilium, dark moustachial stripes, long legs and tail, and a long dark bill
• Characteristic 'ssissik' call, distinct from the tawny pipit's 'tchilip'

Habitat

Found in open habitats, especially short grassland and cultivation, across Africa south of the Sahara Desert.

Diet

Like other pipits, this species is insectivorous. It builds its cup-shaped nest on the ground and usually lays three eggs.

Did you know?

The plain-backed pipit can be distinguished from the wintering tawny pipit by its characteristic 'ssissik' call, which is quite different from the tawny pipit's 'tchilip'.