RICHARD'S PIPIT. 



Anthus richardi, Vieillot. 

 Plate 12. 



This Eastern species of Pipit breeds on the steppes and marshy lands of 

 Central and Northern Asia, wintering in China and India. Although not breeding 

 in Europe, it has a wide range there, and has occurred many times in England, 

 seldom in Scotland, and only twice in Ireland. 



According to Seebohm, it nests late in May or early in June, as its breeding- 

 grounds are covered with snow until that time. 



It builds its nest on the ground, and the five or six eggs are dull white, spotted 

 and blotched with different shades of brown. 



It feeds on worms and insects. 



In habits Richard's Pipit is said to be very shy and wary, and difficult to 

 approach within gunshot. 



It is partial to well-watered country, being frequently found in wet meadows 

 and grass-lands. 



It is by far the largest of the Pipits visiting Great Britain, and has a very long 

 hind claw. 



The female does not differ from the male in plumage. 



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