Wagtails and pipits · Perching birds
Olive-backed Pipit
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Anthus hodgsoni
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Voice
Call
Alarm
Call
How to recognize it
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Body length 15–19 cm
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In breeding plumage, olive-green upperparts with fine, faint streaks on the back
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Broad white eyebrow, ochre near the bill, separated from the crown by a dark stripe
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Pale underparts with clear dark streaks on the breast and flanks
About the species
Olive-green and brown across the back, the upperparts have fine dark streaks, while the pale underside is marked with darker lines on the chest and flanks. A broad cream eyebrow runs above the eye, with a dark stripe separating it from the crown. Pale bars cross the folded wings, and the outer tail feathers are light.
It runs over the ground in search of insects and seeds, usually alone or in pairs. When disturbed, it flies up into a tree, its flight bobbing in an uneven line. A brief "tseep" or "spek" gives its call; its song is a fast, high-pitched trill.
It breeds in open country, forest edges, and light woodland, then winters in evergreen woodland farther south. Insects make up most of its diet, with grass and weed seeds also on the menu. Each year it migrates from its Asian breeding grounds to southern Asia and Indonesia.
Where to find
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In summer groves, listen for the Olive-backed Pipit's song — males mostly sing while perched in a tree or shrub.
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At forest edges and in light taiga or mixed woods, watch for quick runs along the ground as it searches for insects.
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From May to July, in open woodland and scrub, the nest is hidden in a shallow hollow beneath grass or a bush — observe the area from a distance without disturbing it.
