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Rock pipit

©Amy Lewis

Rock pipit

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A common and stocky bird of our rocky coasts, the rock pipit can nearly always be seen close to the sea. It is a bit smaller than a starling.

Scientific name

Anthus petrosus

When to see

January to December

Top facts

Stats

Length: 16-17cm
Wingspan: 25cm
Weight: 24g
Average lifespan: up to 5 years
Classified in the UK as Green under the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2021).

About

The rock pipit is a common bird of rocky beaches that feeds on seeds, small molluscs and invertebrates it finds among the stones. It breeds around the coast and is mostly resident - only the young disperse once they are independent. Our rock pipits are joined by birds from Norway in winter.

What to look for

A streaky, dark grey-brown bird, the rock pipit has blackish legs. The similar-looking meadow pipit is smaller and has pale, flesh-coloured legs.

Where to find

Found around most rocky coasts.

Did you know?

The closely related water pipit nests in the Alps and other European mountains and is a rare winter visitor to marshland in southern England.