diagnostics
18-18.5 cm, 27 g. A localised, migratory pipit of high-altitude scrub and grassland, mostly greater than 2 000 m. Considered a breeding summer visitor, present from late October to March/April. Similar to the African Pipit in most aspects, and previously considered conspecific with that species. The Mountain Pipit is best distinguished from the African Pipit by its larger size, smoky buff or dusky fawn panels on the outer rectrices, less extensive pale markings on the penultimate tail feathers, more heavily marked mantle, crown and breast, darker buff underparts, and pinkish flesh (not yellowish) base to the lower mandible (Clancey 1990). In addition, in early summer Mountain Pipits breed in fresh plumage, while neighbouring African Pipits are comparatively worn (Ryan 2006). The two species have similar voices, but the songs of most Mountain Pipits are generally slower, and the calls deeper, hoarser and more clearly disyllabic (Dowset-Lemaire 1989). Although some local overlap occurs, Mountain Pipits generally replace African Pipits on high-altitude plateaus above 2 000 m (Clancey 1997c). Eyes brown. Legs and feet brownish pink. Hind claw usually less than13.5 mm (9-14 mm) in length. Sexes alike, but female smaller. Juvenile and immature plumage poorly documented, but likely similar to African Pipit: above with darker feather centres and pale feather margins, creating a scaly appearance; below more heavily patterned, with rounded marks; malar and moustachial stripes darker (Keith et al. 1992, Peacock 2006).
