Berthelot's Pipit

The Berthelot's pipit is a small, rather inconspicuous passerine bird, measuring 13–14 centimeters in length. Its upperparts are predominantly grey, while the underparts are a paler whitish hue, adorned with some streaking across the breast. A distinctive whitish supercilium and eyering contrast with the dark eye and moustachial stripes. Both sexes present a similar plumage, though the juveniles tend to be a touch browner than the adults.

Identification Tips

When observing Berthelot's pipit, one may note its relatively large head and shorter tail, which sets it apart from the meadow pipit. The bird's plumage does not lend itself to easy identification when it is on the ground, but its structure and the subtle facial markings can be helpful cues.

Habitat

This species favors open country landscapes, where it can be found going about its daily activities.

Distribution

Berthelot's pipit has made its home in the archipelagos of Madeira and the Canary Islands, where it is a common resident.

Song & Calls

The call of the Berthelot's pipit is reminiscent of the "schrip" sound associated with the yellow wagtail. Its song, delivered during flight, is a distinctive chattery series of "tsivrr tsivrr tsivrr tsivrr".

Breeding

The ground-nesting habits of the Berthelot's pipit involve laying 3-5 eggs, a typical reproductive strategy for birds of open habitats.

Similar Species

Observers might confuse the Berthelot's pipit with the meadow pipit, but the former can be distinguished by its shorter tail and larger head.

Conservation status

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