Plain-backed Pipit

Anthus leucophrys Vieillot, 1818

Plain-backed Pipit, Anthus leucophrys, is a passerine of Africa, widespread across the continent and a resident breeder south of the Sahara. It is found in open country, especially short grassland and cultivated land. The bird is a pipit with a plain overall appearance, grey-brown above and pale below, with light streaking on the breast. It shows a strong white supercilium and dark moustachial stripes, and has long legs, a long tail and a long dark bill. Juveniles are warmer brown above. It is often separated from Tawny Pipit by its sturdier build and characteristic ssissik call.

Order

Passeriformes

Family

Motacillidae — Wagtails, Pipits

Breeding range

Africa: widespread