The long-billed pipit or brown rock pipit is a passerine bird which has a wide distribution. A number of subspecies have been created for the populations in Africa, through the Arabian Peninsula and South Asia. The systematics of this complex is yet to be clarified. Most birds are residents or short distance migrants.
Region
Africa, Arabian Peninsula, and South Asia
Typical Environment
Inhabits dry, open, and rocky landscapes including stony hillsides, scrubby slopes, semi-arid wadis, and sparsely vegetated grasslands. It also uses fallow fields, road embankments, and open bushland with scattered rocks. Nests are placed on the ground, tucked against stones or in grass tussocks. The species avoids dense forests and prefers areas with scattered cover that allow ground foraging and unobstructed views.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Often called the brown rock pipit, this species forms a complex with many subspecies across Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and South Asia. It is frequently confused with tawny and rock pipits but shows a longer, slimmer bill and richer buff tones with heavier breast streaking. Prefers rocky, sparsely vegetated slopes where its ground-foraging and creeping gait make it inconspicuous. The tail is often wagged and white outer tail feathers flash in flight.
Temperament
wary and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
low, undulating flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs outside the breeding season; forms loose groups in good foraging areas. Ground nester with a cup nest hidden by rocks or grass. Typically monogamous, with song-flights and perch displays by the male during courtship.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a series of thin trills and chirps delivered from a perch or in a brief parachuting display flight. Calls are high, sharp tsiip notes, often given in flight. The overall song is softer and more sibilant than many similar pipits.
Plumage
Sandy-brown to grey-brown upperparts with dark streaking on the mantle, paler buff underparts with fine streaking on the breast and flanks, and a long tail with white outer feathers.
Diet
Feeds mainly on insects such as beetles, ants, termites, grasshoppers, and caterpillars, as well as spiders and other small invertebrates. Will occasionally take small seeds, especially outside the breeding season. Forages by walking and pausing to pick prey from the ground or low vegetation, sometimes turning small stones or leaf litter.
Preferred Environment
Open, stony ground with sparse grass or scrub where prey is exposed and unobstructed views allow vigilance. Frequently feeds along rocky tracks, field margins, and lightly grazed slopes. Uses perches such as rocks or low shrubs to scan between foraging bouts.
