Identification
Small pipit with a greenish-brown back and heavily streaked breast and belly that is often seen in loose flocks or in pairs. Note the distinctive facial pattern: broad pale lines surrounding the eye and a dark ear patch. Prefers more forested areas than other pipits, though will also forage in fields and scrubby edges. Can be tolerant of human activity and is not uncommon in rural areas and city parks in parts of their range. Calls are high-pitched “tseep’s,” often with a buzzy quality. Song is a beautiful series of warbling trills, whistles, and rattles.