Blyth's Pipit

The Blyth's pipit, Anthus godlewskii is a medium-sized passerine and a rather inconspicuous bird when seen on the ground. Its plumage is predominantly brown on the upper parts with a paler underside, a common coloration that offers camouflage among the grasses and plains it frequents.

Identification Tips

Distinguishing this species can be a subtle art, as it bears a close resemblance to the larger Richard's pipit. However, the discerning eye will note that the Blyth's pipit is marginally smaller, with shorter legs and a more compact, darker bill. When in flight, its strong and direct movement is accompanied by a distinctive "pshee" call, a sound that is notably higher pitched than that of its Richard's counterpart.

Habitat

The Blyth's pipit is a bird of open landscapes, breeding in the expansive grasslands of Mongolia and adjacent regions, including parts of China, Tibet, and India.

Distribution

This species is a long-distance migrant, retreating from its breeding grounds to the open lowlands of Southern Asia during the non-breeding season. It is an exceptionally rare visitor to western Europe, where its presence is noted with great interest by birdwatchers.

Behaviour

In flight, the Blyth's pipit is robust and purposeful. On the ground, its movements are less conspicuous, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. It is an insectivorous bird, actively foraging for its prey among the grasses.

Song & Calls

The call of the Blyth's pipit is a characteristic "pshee," a sound that serves as an auditory beacon to those attuned to its frequency, higher than that of the similar Richard's pipit.

Diet and Feeding

As an insectivore, the Blyth's pipit sustains itself primarily on the insects it captures in its grassland habitat.

Similar Species

The Richard's pipit is the species most commonly confused with the Blyth's pipit due to their similar size and appearance. Careful observation is required to differentiate between these two, especially in Southern Asia during the winter months when both species may be present.

Conservation status

The Blyth's pipit is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, indicating that, for now, this species does not face immediate threats to its survival.