The ochre-breasted pipit is a species of bird in the family Motacillidae.
Region
Southern Cone of South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in natural grasslands and open pasturelands of southern Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and northeastern Argentina. It favors short to medium-height native swards, wet meadows, and lightly grazed campos, often near marshy depressions. The species avoids dense shrub cover and closed forests, using scattered tussocks for cover and nesting. Presence is influenced by grazing intensity and seasonal burning, with birds selecting patches that maintain a mosaic of open and lightly vegetated ground.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The ochre-breasted pipit is a slender grassland songbird of the family Motacillidae, recognized by its warm ochre wash across the breast and discreet, ground-dwelling habits. It relies on natural and lightly grazed grasslands and is sensitive to conversion to cropland and intensive pasture. Males often deliver a tinkling song from short aerial displays over open fields. Conservation concerns center on habitat loss and changes in fire and grazing regimes across southern South America.
Temperament
wary and inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating, low-level flights over grass
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season and may form small loose groups in non-breeding periods. Nests are placed on the ground, well hidden among grasses, and pairs are likely monogamous. Males perform brief song-flights and also sing from low perches such as fence posts.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, tinkling series of high notes delivered from a short aerial display or low perch. Calls include a soft tsip typical of pipits, given in flight and when alarmed.
