Pipit ID

[RKB]

Originally Posted by RoyW

Although I agree with you, I'm not convinced that the hind claw alone is enough for an ID - in some photos the hindclaws of Tree Pipits can appear deceptively long. In combination with other features, in particular the relatively heavy flank streaking, Meadow Pipit does become far more likely though. However, as I said, there is some overlap, and one of a pair of Tree Pipits that I saw recently after following up a report was far from convincing as a Tree Pipit based on most plumage features (including the flank streaking) - but there was no doubt when it started singing!

Typical Tree Pipits can be seen here (with hind claws appearing 'fairly' long in the first and third photos - though perhaps not as long as on the subject bird in this thread).

Agreed there's overlap, but the claws on this bird do seem out of range for Tree.

[FUDGEY]

Thanks everyone, I'll just say meadow and go look for a tree pipit :-)