Plain-backed Pipit
NamePlain-backed Pipit
Common NamePlain-backed Pipit
Scientific NameAnthus leucophrys
FamilyMotacillidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)17
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are uniformly plain brown, lacking distinct streaking. Underparts are buffy-white, often with faint streaking on the breast. It has a pale supercilium and a dark eye-stripe, with a pale eye-ring.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a sharp 'chip' or 'tseep'. The song is a series of high-pitched, repetitive notes, often delivered in a display flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Mauritania east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesPlain, unstreaked brown back, Pale supercilium and dark eye-stripe, Upright posture, Often found in open grasslands
Description
The Plain-backed Pipit is a medium-sized pipit with an upright posture, often found in open grasslands. It forages on the ground for insects and typically sings from an elevated perch or in flight.
