ID Keys: Striping on back, black streaks on crown, pale legs, white
outer tail feathers
Sprague's Pipits can be
difficult to observe, given their tendency to freeze or run when approach rather
than fly. They also tend to be found singly or in pairs, not in flocks
like the American Pipit. They are true
birds of the shortgrass prairie, and have declined as this native habitat has
been converted to agricultural land. While normally found on the ground,
they perform one of the longest flight displays of any bird.
Habitat
Strongly prefers shortgrass prairie,
avoiding brushy areas or cultivated fields.
Diet
Summer diet in South Dakota is
primarily insects, but they will also feed on the seeds of grasses and
weeds. The winter diet includes a greater proportion of seeds.
Behavior
Forages on the ground in search of seeds
and insects, usually by themselves.
Nesting
June and July
Song
Series of descending tinkling notes.
Migration
Summers in the northern Great Plains and
southern Canada. Winters in Texas and Mexico.
Interactive eBird map: Click to access an interactive eBird map of Sprague's Pipit sightings
Has declined throughout much
of its historic range due to habitat loss as agricultural lands replace
native prairie. Grazing activity and other land management activities on
remaining grasslands also threaten the species. The species has recently been
declining at a rate of over 20% per decade, and as a result,
the IUCN currently
classifies Sprague's Pipit as a "vulnerable" species.
Photo Information: September 25th, 2011 -- Fort Pierre
National Grasslands, Richland Wildlife Area -- Terry Sohl
