American Pipit (Anthus rubescens)
Three observed in a field near water in Sonoma County. The habitual tail bobbing is a characteristic family (Motacillidae) trait.
Family Motacillidae is mostly an Old World family containing pipits & wagtails. Of the 65 (or so) species worldwide, only two nest in North America. Of the 7 species recorded in California, only American Pipit is common, the others exceedingly rare. These are slender, long-tailed terrestrial species, adapted to foraging on open or barren ground. Their feet are rather large with an extended hind toe. All are insectivores.
American Pipit (Anthus rubescens)
Three observed in a field near water in Sonoma County. The habitual tail bobbing is a characteristic family (Motacillidae) trait.
Family Motacillidae is mostly an Old World family containing pipits & wagtails. Of the 65 (or so) species worldwide, only two nest in North America. Of the 7 species recorded in California, only American Pipit is common, the others exceedingly rare. These are slender, long-tailed terrestrial species, adapted to foraging on open or barren ground. Their feet are rather large with an extended hind toe. All are insectivores.