New Zealand Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae

Endemic pipit found in open habitats from coastline to alpine shrublands. Scarce in intensively farmed areas. Prominent pale eyebrow with brown streaked upper body, pale underparts and brown streaking on breast. Distinctive 'tzweep' call given year round. Repeated high-pitched 'pip-it' territorial song heard mainly in August-February. Often seen walking rather than hopping, frequently flicking their long tail when they stop, or when perched. Can form loose flocks in autumn and winter. Very similar to introduced Eurasian Skylark. Note lack of large head crest, a more slender body, and distinctive habit of wagging its long tail up and down.