Meadow Pipit
Anthus pratensis
Overview
Meadow pipits are everywhere on the moorland. You'll flush them. That pip-pip. They do a parachute display in spring. Straight up, then glide down. Merlins eat them. The most common bird on the fells.
At a Glance
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Motacillidae |
| Habitat | Moorland · Grassland · Rough pasture |
| Diet | Insects, seeds |
| UK population | Around 2 million pairs. Declining. |
| Lake District | Abundant. Moorland. Grassland. You'll flush them on every walk. That pip-pip call. They're the food of merlins. |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Everywhere on moorland and grassland. The fells. Foulshaw Moss. That parachute display. The most common pipit.
Identification
Brown. Streaked. Pipit. Walks. Flushes. Parachute display. Similar to tree pipit. Meadow is more common on open ground.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Walk the moorland. You'll see them. They're common. The parachute display in spring is worth watching.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Plan your visit to the Lake District
RSPB Haweswater, Grizedale Forest, Leighton Moss. Practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.