Meadow Pipit

A small, streaky brown bird of open, treeless landscapes. It is common on moorlands, pastures, and coastal dunes. It is often confused with the Tree Pipit but has duller colors and more uniform streaking. It is a nervous bird that frequently pumps its tail while perched on rocks or fences. Northern populations migrate south in large numbers during autumn.

Meadow Pipits are ground-feeders. They scurry through short grass to find insects and spiders. The song-flight is a key feature. The male rises into the air singing accelerating 'tink-tink-tink' notes. He then parachutes back down on stiff wings. They are the main hosts for Cuckoo eggs in upland areas. In winter, they form loose flocks that fly with a jerky, undulating motion.