Upland Pipit
Anthus sylvanus
This large pipit has an expansive range, but is uncommon and sparsely distributed throughout most of it. Breeds in foothills and mountains, but descends during the winter. Large-billed and rather thickset, with an upright stance, fine dark streaks throughout with paler underparts. Also note paler brow. May be confused with Richard’s and Blyth’s Pipits, but it is more densely streaked and with a stouter and shorter bill.
Identification
The upland pipit (Anthus sylvanus) is a species of bird in the family Motacillidae. It is found in Afghanistan, China, Hong Kong, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. As its name suggests, it inhabits mountains, typically open areas with grassland at elevations above 500m.
Taxonomy
Genus: Anthus; Family: Motacillidae; Order: Passeriformes.
- Scientific name
- Anthus sylvanus
- Authority
- (Hodgson, 1845)
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Motacillidae
- Genus
- Anthus
Range and habitat
- Migration
- Resident species
Behavior
Migration pattern: Resident species.
Conservation
Population trend: stable.
- Population trend
- stable
Photos
Distribution
Bird Calls
Other Birds
Blackish-blue Seedeater
Amaurospiza moesta
Compact finch with a small head and short, gray conical bill. Found in the understory of forests and woodlands with bamboo. Males are slate-blue and females are brown. Note the white underwing, although usually difficult to see. The song is a pleasant fast warble.
Striolated Tit-Spinetail
Leptasthenura striolata
Distinctive, diminutive species with a very long spiky tail and a heavily streaked body. Note the rusty crown and narrow white eyebrow. Occurs at forest edges, in Araucaria forest, and in tall second growth, where it forages acrobatically by gleaning. Often accompanies mixed-species flocks.
LeConte's Sparrow
Ammospiza leconteii
This strikingly beautiful sparrow is found in wet meadows with tall grass. Look for the bright orange-buff face with a silvery cheek, spotted purplish-gray nape, and crisp black streaking on buffy underparts. Secretive; difficult to see well unless a male is perched up singing. Most similar to Nelson's Sparrow but typically found in slightly drier habitats; also note white stripe down center of crown on LeConte's. Sings a dry, hissing trill with sharp introductory notes.
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