Conservation status: Amber
The water pipit is a large and stocky pipit. It is greyish-brown above and pale below with streaks on its breast. It has a pale stripe over its eye, a slender bill and dark legs. It does not breed in the UK, but is a winter visitor, mainly to southern and eastern England. It breeds in the Alps and other mountains of central and southern Europe.
Latin name
Anthus spinoletta
Family
Pipits and wagtails (Motacillidae)
Where to see them
In suitable habitat in the winter in eastern and southern England.
When to see them
October to April
What they eat
Insects and larvae
Population
| Europe | UK breeding* | UK wintering* | UK passage* | | - | - | 100 individuals (GB) | - |