Red-throated Pipit vs Water Pipit

In short

The Red-throated Pipit and Water Pipit can be distinguished primarily by their plumage and habitat preferences. Red-throated Pipits have a distinctive red throat during the breeding season, while Water Pipits are more uniformly grey-brown with a less distinct supercilium. Both species are similar in size, but they prefer different habitats, with Red-throated Pipits favoring tundra and Water Pipits found in alpine and subalpine areas.

Identification tips

1. Look for the red throat in Red-throated Pipits during the breeding season. 2. Note the habitat: tundra for Red-throated Pipits, alpine for Water Pipits. 3. Listen for the call: 'tseep' for Red-throated, varied notes for Water Pipit. 4. In non-breeding plumage, focus on overall plumage tone and habitat.

Size

Both species are similar in size, measuring around 15–17 cm in length.

Plumage

Red-throated Pipits have a red throat patch during the breeding season, which is absent in Water Pipits. Water Pipits are generally grey-brown with a less distinct supercilium and more uniform underparts. In non-breeding plumage, both species can appear similar, but Red-throated Pipits retain some streaking on the underparts.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar behaviors typical of pipits, such as walking on the ground and making short flights.

Habitat

Red-throated Pipits are typically found in tundra habitats, while Water Pipits prefer alpine and subalpine environments. This habitat preference can be a useful clue when identifying these species.

Voice

Red-throated Pipits have a distinctive 'tseep' call, while Water Pipits produce a more varied series of notes, including 'dwis' and 'zi-zi'.