S Thailand pipits (1 Viewer)

[bhutjoe]

Hi, I suspect these photos, of two different birds, all show a paddyfield pipit. But on the off chance one was a Richard's I thought I would check here. Richard's has been spotted at this site. The photos were taken on Nov 29 at around noon at the Hat Yai Water Treatment Plant, on the dikes before the main entry to the plant.
Thank you in advance for confirmation or correction. I have not played with the colour of these photos, for better or worse they are as taken
steve

 

[rockfowl]

All Paddyfield.

 

[bhutjoe]

Thanks Rockfowl, I am trying to apply the "no streaking on the mantle" that is mentioned in Robson's guide to distinguish between the two pipits but then I am having difficulty telling whether the mantle is streaked or not That was my issue in identifying the second, darker photo. I will have to keep looking
thanks again
steve

 

[Grahame Walbridge]

Thanks Rockfowl, I am trying to apply the "no streaking on the mantle" that is mentioned in Robson's guide to distinguish between the two pipits but then I am having difficulty telling whether the mantle is streaked or not That was my issue in identifying the second, darker photo. I will have to keep looking
thanks again
steve

Agree both Paddyfield Pipits.

Steve, contra Robson Paddyfield's have streaked mantles to a varying extent, the strength as with other Anthus dependent on e.g age and wear or, simply individual variation, but on average they are less strongly marked than both Richard's and the much rarer (in Thailand) Blyth's. In worn plumage more of the dark feather bases of the mantle become exposed creating a rather messy, blotched effect. Vocalisations are also key. A very useful reference guide re separation of large pipits can be seen here on Dave Bakewell's excellent blog.
https://digdeep1962.wordpress.com/2...field-richards-and-blyths-pipits-in-malaysia/

To answer your specific question as to why the two birds appear so different in tone that is largely a product of their different backgrounds and possibly light.

Grahame

 

[bhutjoe]

That is very helpful Graham, thank you for the link and the explanation.
steve