Species profile
About this species
The Meadow Pipit is a small, streaky brown passerine bird common across much of Europe & Asia. It has buff-white underparts with dark streaking on the breast & flanks, & a slender bill suited to its insectivorous diet. It is one of the most numerous upland birds in Britain, often seen fluttering up from grassland with a distinctive thin, piping call.
Open grassland, moorland, upland heaths, coastal marshes & rough pasture; often found at higher altitudes during the breeding season
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Meadow Pipit with us in Iceland.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Robin Lowry helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Spring & early summer (April to June) for song flights & breeding behaviour; early morning light provides the best conditions for sharp, well-lit images
Approach slowly & low across open moorland or grassland, using natural cover to get within range without flushing the bird. Shooting during the breeding season gives opportunities to capture birds carrying food to the nest or performing the distinctive song flight. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm & set a fast shutter speed to freeze the bird's movement in the wind.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Meadow Pipit
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.