Buffy Pipit
NameBuffy Pipit
Common NameBuffy Pipit
Scientific NameAnthus vaalensis
FamilyMotacillidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)17
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dull brown with fine dark streaking, particularly on the mantle and back. The underparts are buffy to whitish, often unstreaked or with very faint streaking on the breast. It features a pale supercilium above a dark eye-stripe, and its legs are typically pinkish-flesh colored.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a soft 'tsip' or 'chissick'. The song, often given during a display flight, is a simple, repetitive series of notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southern Africa, ranging from Angola and Namibia east to Botswana, Zimbabwe, and south into South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesStreaky brown upperparts, Plain buffy underparts, Pale supercilium, Pinkish-flesh colored legs, Relatively plain face
Description
The Buffy Pipit is a medium-sized, rather plain pipit found in southern Africa. It is typically observed foraging on the ground in open grassy habitats, walking or running quickly to catch insects. Its plumage provides excellent camouflage against the dry earth and vegetation.
