Alpine Pipit
NameAlpine Pipit
Common NameAlpine Pipit
Scientific NameAnthus gutturalis
FamilyMotacillidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky dark brown with paler feather edges, creating a mottled appearance. Underparts are buffy white, heavily streaked with dark brown on the breast and flanks. It features a pale supercilium above a dark eye-stripe, and has long pinkish legs.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically include a sharp 'tsip' or 'tseep' call, often given while in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the island of New Guinea, where it is found in the high-altitude alpine grasslands and rocky slopes of the central mountain ranges.
Identifying FeaturesStreaky brown plumage, Relatively large size for a pipit, Pale supercilium, Long pinkish legs, Upright posture, Found in high-altitude rocky and grassy habitats
Description
The Alpine Pipit is a relatively large, streaky brown passerine found in high-altitude environments. It typically forages on the ground, walking or running to catch insects among rocks and sparse vegetation, often perching on prominent rocks.
