Featured Article: Buff-bellied Pipit
Anthus rubescens
Photo by digitalbirder
Several features hold true for both Buff-bellied Pipit at any time of year. In size and structure, they fall between Meadow Pipit A. pratensis and the Water Pipit/Rock Pipit A. spinoletta/petrosus complex, although usually appear closer to Water and Rock Pipits. The bill is distinctly and diagnostically shorter and finer than both Water and Rock Pipits, and actually overlaps in size with Meadow Pipit. Larger individuals can overlap in length with Water Pipit, but do not show the often strong and even thrush-like bill that that species can show. The fineness of the bill contributes to the more delicate jizz of Buff-bellied Pipit compared to Water Pipit, and again, can recall Meadow Pipit. [Read More...]
