Meadow Pipits or Titlarks

Meadow Pipit


It is migratory over most of its range, wintering in southern Europe, north Africa and southwestern Asia, but is resident in Ireland, Great Britain, and neighbouring areas of western Europe. However, even here, many birds move to the coast or lowlands in winter.

This is a widespread and often abundant small pipit.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Description



It is similar to the Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus, which is more heavily streaked and (in summer only) has an orange-red throat, and to the Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis, which is slightly larger, less heavily streaked, and has stronger facial markings and a shorter hind claw. The song of the Meadow Pipit accelerates towards the end while that of the Tree Pipit slows down.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Nesting / Breeding


The nest is on the ground hidden in dense vegetation, with 2–7 (most often 3–5) eggs; the eggs hatch after 11–15 days, with the chicks fledging 10–14 days after hatching. Two broods are commonly raised each year. This species is one of the most important nest hosts of the Cuckoo, and it is also an important prey species for Merlins and Hen Harriers.

Diet / Feeding


Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Naming

The generic name 'pipit', first documented by Thomas Pennant in 1768, is onomatopoeic, from the call note of this species. In colloquial use by birders in the UK the name Meadow Pipit is often abbreviated to "mippit". Old folk names, no longer used, include "chit lark", "peet lark", "tit lark" and "titling"; these refer to its small size and superficial similarity to a lark.

