Rock Pipit are a commonly encountered bird on any suitable shoreline here in Devon. As the name implies this is usually Rocky shores where they feed amongst the sea weed exposed at low tide. They will leap to catch flies and are resident throughout the year which provides some interest for bird watchers and photographers when other species are hard to find. Yesterday for example I went to Beer to look for Black Redstarts reported and had to be content with these more than adequate photographic replacements.(I did find a nice hen Black Redstart  but just at dusk and as the rain lashed down).

For what it’s worth I enjoy seeing Rock Pipits and find them very photogenic. More photos of yesterday’s outing here on my PBase Gallery.

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There can be some confusion with Meadow Pipit as they can at times be seen in the same locations, or more to the point Meadow Pipits may come into the more usual habitat of a Rock Pipit, on the shoreline. here is a photograph of a meadow Pipit taken in the summer and it makes a very useful comparison. It is quite easy to understand why confusions could occur. frankly though, I think that this is in reality unlikely as they are quite different if you see them alongside each other. However they are obviously very closely related along with Tree Pipit and Water Pipit, the two rarer members of the group.

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A note about the Flag Counter on the left…………………. that’s the display of flags. You might find it interesting to have a look. If you click on any flag you will be directed to an area that shows the list of visitors to the Blog from other countries. So far that list stands at 105. The latest Country to visit is Costa Rica. Having visited there myself in the past I know what a lovely country it is and what great birdlife they have. A country worth a visit and that’s for sure.