Yellow-breasted pipit  (Anthus chloris)

Description

The yellow-breasted pipit is a rare and secretive bird found in the high-altitude grasslands of South Africa and Lesotho (3). This species is most striking when in its breeding plumage, developing bright yellow underparts and wing linings (2) (4); in contrast, outside the breeding period, the underparts are brown or dull white with dark streaks (2). The upperparts, which remain greyish-brown throughout the year, are boldly dappled with dark spots and patches, giving a distinctive scaled appearance. The juvenile is generally pale brown and lacks the adult’s bright yellow colouring, having creamy brown underparts instead. The characteristic calls of the yellow-breasted pipit consist of a rapid, continuous chip chip chip and a quieter suwiep (4).

left