Peatland wildlife

Meadow pipit (Anthus pratensis)

Meadow pipit (Anthus pratensis)

Description

The meadow pipit is a widespread resident bird of upland bogs, undisturbed grassland, open heaths and coastal marshes. Its upperparts are buff-brown to olive-brown with darker streaks. Its underparts are pale grey or buff coloured with bold streaks and spots on the breast and flanks. The belly and outer tail feathers are white. Both sexes look alike, although plumage can be quite variable. Juveniles are pinkish-buff and lack the dark streaks on the flanks.

Behaviour

Meadow pipits spend much of their time on the ground feeding on seeds and small invertebrates such as flies, spiders, moths and beetles. They are often seen sitting on fence posts and wire fences. During the winter months an influx of continental birds boost their numbers and they can often be found in the company of other species such as larks and wagtails. The male has a trilling, descending song in flight, similar in style to that of the skylark though not as spectacular.

Breeding

The female builds a well-concealed nest on the ground using dry grass, lining it with finer grasses and hair. She lays between three and five glossy white eggs with heavy brown spotting, and incubates them for 11-15 days. Both parents share the feeding of the young, which fledge after about 10-14 days. Meadow pipits always land some distance away from the nest site and walk so as not to draw attention to the nest. In spite of this precaution, cuckoos often lay parasitic eggs in their nests.

Status

In Northern Ireland the Wildlife Order states that it is an offence to kill, injure, capture or keep (alive or dead) any wild bird, including the meadow pipit. It is also an offence to destroy, damage or take the nest of any wild bird or to sell or advertise for sale the eggs of any wild bird.