Buffy Pipit

The buffy pipit, known scientifically as Anthus vaalensis, is a modestly sized bird, with a length ranging from 16 to 18 centimeters and a weight between 23 and 36.6 grams. Its plumage is generally pale with a buffy tinge, particularly on the flanks and belly. A pale supercilium graces its face, and the lower mandible is notable for its pinkish base. The breast is adorned with faint markings, while juveniles display a mottled appearance.

Identification Tips

Distinguishing the buffy pipit can be somewhat challenging due to its resemblance to the plain-backed pipit. However, the buffy pipit can be identified by its paler and more buff-colored upperparts. Observers should also look for the pale supercilium and the pinkish base of the lower mandible, which are characteristic of this species.

Habitat

The buffy pipit favors semi-arid plains adorned with grasses and patches of bare ground. It is also known to inhabit pastures, burnt fields, and the peripheries of saltpans.

Distribution

This species has a broad distribution across southern and eastern Africa, with sightings in Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The estimated distribution size is a vast 5,660,000 square kilometers.

Behaviour

Typically encountered alone or in pairs, the buffy pipit may gather in flocks during the winter months. It exhibits a characteristic tail-wagging behavior. When startled and taking flight, it emits a sharp 'sshik' call, while its song consists of a repeated 'tchreep-churup'.

Song & Calls

The buffy pipit's vocalizations include a song that is a repetitive 'tchreep-churup'. When flushed, it gives a distinctive 'sshik' call.

Breeding

Breeding activity has been recorded from July to February in Zimbabwe and from August to December in South Africa. The buffy pipit constructs an open cup-shaped nest directly on the ground.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the buffy pipit is composed of invertebrates and seeds, which it forages from the ground.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has assessed the buffy pipit as being of Least Concern. While the exact population size is unknown, the species is currently experiencing an increasing population trend and benefits from a large range.