Introduction: The Red-Throated Pipit (Anthus cervinus) migrates to Namibia during winter. With reddish-brown throat and breast, it forages for insects and seeds in open grasslands and wet areas. Known for fluttering flight display and ground nests.
Description: The Red-Throated Pipit is a small pipit species with a distinctive reddish-brown throat and breast, contrasting with its streaked back and wings. Its slender bill is well-suited for catching insects and picking up seeds from the ground.
Habitat: During the winter months, the Red-Throated Pipit migrates to Namibia and can be found in open grasslands, wetlands, and marshy areas. It prefers habitats with low vegetation, where it can easily forage for food.
Diet: This bird is primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects found in the grass and wet areas. It also consumes seeds and grains, supplementing its diet during the non-breeding season when insects are less abundant. The pipit uses its slender bill to pick up insects from the ground and to pluck seeds from plants.
behaviour: The Red-Throated Pipit is a skilled and agile forager, often seen hopping and walking on the ground in search of food. During the breeding season, the male performs a fluttering flight display to attract females, showing off its striking reddish-brown throat.
Reproduction: The Red-Throated Pipit constructs a cup-shaped nest on the ground, usually hidden in vegetation. The female lays a clutch of eggs, and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and caring for the young chicks after hatching.
Size: The Red-Throated Pipit measures about 15 centimetres (6 inches) in length.
Weight: It typically weighs around 20–25 grams.