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Plain-backed Pipit

Anthus leucophrys

The plain-backed pipit or plain pipit (Anthus leucophrys) is a medium-sized passerine bird which is a resident breeder in Africa south of the Sahara Desert. It is found in open habitats, especially short grassland and cultivation. It builds its cup-shaped nest on the ground and usually lays three eggs. Like other pipits, this species is insectivorous. The plain-backed pipit is a large pipit at 17 cm, but is otherwise an undistinguished looking species, faintly streaked grey-brown above and pale below with light breast streaking. It has a strong white supercilium, and dark moustachial stripes. It has long legs and tail, and a long dark bill. Sexes are similar, but juveniles have warmer brown upperparts. Some care must be taken to distinguish this species from wintering tawny pipits, Anthus campestris. The plain-backed pipit is sturdier and darker than the Tawny, and stands more upright. Perhaps the best distinction is the characteristic "ssissik" call, quite different from the tawny pipit's "tchilip".
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Plain-backed Pipits on Birda

Photos

Sightings

A map showing the sighting location
Profile picture for Jean Marais
Jean Marais
Wednesday 30 Aug 2023 - 7:09am
South Africa
A map showing the sighting location
🦅
Suzette Theron
Monday 14 Aug 2023 - 10:33am
South Africa
A map showing the sighting location
Profile picture for Aart Verrips
Aart Verrips
Wednesday 09 Aug 2023 - 10:19am
South Africa
A map showing the sighting location
Profile picture for Aart Verrips
Aart Verrips
Wednesday 09 Aug 2023 - 10:00am
South Africa
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