Golden Pipit

The golden pipit, known scientifically as Tmetothylacus tenellus, is a striking bird with a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other pipits. The males are particularly notable for their vibrant yellow plumage on the underparts and within the wings.

Identification Tips

When identifying the golden pipit, look for the male's bright yellow throat and breast, which are accentuated by a contrasting dark band. This feature may remind one of the yellow-throated longclaw or Pangani longclaw; however, the golden pipit's yellow wings are a clear distinguishing characteristic, especially noticeable in flight. The female, while more subdued in coloration, can be recognized by her brown upperparts and the yellow underside of her wings.

Habitat

The golden pipit favors dry country grasslands, savannas, and shrublands, where it can often be seen foraging on the ground.

Distribution

This species is native to the eastern regions of Africa, with its range extending across Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. It has also been recorded as a vagrant in Oman, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.

Behaviour

Observations of the golden pipit reveal a bird that is well-adapted to its dry grassland habitat, engaging in typical pipit behaviors such as ground foraging.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the golden pipit as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers that would warrant a higher level of concern.