The Eurasian Rock Pipit, also known as the Rock Pipit, is a small passerine bird that belongs to the family of Pipits and Wagtails. It has a length of about 6.3-7.5 inches and weighs approximately 0.7-1.1 ounces. The Rock Pipit has a distinctive dark and light streaked plumage, which makes it easy to identify. Its upperparts are usually dark brown or greyish-brown, while its underparts are lighter and streaked with white.
During the breeding season, the Eurasian Rock Pipit is found along rocky coasts and offshore islands across Europe, from Norway to Portugal. It can also be found in parts of Asia, such as Siberia and Japan. However, during the non-breeding season, it migrates southward to coastal areas of North Africa and the Mediterranean.
One of the most distinguishing features of the Eurasian Rock Pipit is its distinctive call, which is a sharp “tsweet”. It is often heard before the bird is seen, and can help birdwatchers locate the species. Additionally, the bird has a habit of wagging its tail up and down, which is also a helpful field mark.
The Eurasian Rock Pipit feeds on insects, small invertebrates, and occasionally small fish. It forages along the shoreline, searching for prey in the rocks and seaweed. During the breeding season, the bird builds its nest on the ground or in a crevice among rocks. The nest is made of grass and seaweed and is lined with finer material such as feathers.
In conclusion, the Eurasian Rock Pipit is a small but distinctive bird that is easily recognized by its dark and light streaked plumage, sharp call, and tail-wagging habit. It is found along rocky coasts and offshore islands across Europe and parts of Asia during the breeding season, and migrates southward to coastal areas of North Africa and the Mediterranean during the non-breeding season. Its diet consists of insects, small invertebrates, and occasionally small fish, and it builds its nest on the ground or in a crevice among rocks.