There are several kinds of 
Pipits in England, where they 
are often known by the name of 
Titlarks, because the spotted 
breasts and long claws of the- 
hind toes resemble the same Darts 
in the skylark. 
In some places the Meadow- 
Pipit is called the Moss-cheeper, 
or Longtoe. Its colour is olive- 
brown above, and whitish below, 
with a few spots on the breast. 
The Meadow Pipit may be seen 
throughout the year upon moors, 
waste lands, and marshy ground, 
changing its locality according to 
MEADOW PIPIT . — Anthus pratensis. tlle seaso , n of , the W 81 '- U i, s a 
« pretty though rather sombre 
little bird, and is quick and active in its movements, often jerking its long tail 
in a fashion that reminds the observer of the wagtail’s habits. It moves with 
considerable celerity, tripping over the rough and rocky ground which it fre- 
quents, and picking up insects with the stroke of its unerring beak. Its food, 
however, is of a mixed description, as in the crops of several individuals were 
found seeds, insects, and water-shells, some of the latter being entire. 
The song of this bird is hardly deserving of the name, being rather a feeble 
and plaintive “ cheeping ” than a true song. 
The Tree Pipit (Anthus arboreusj is able to perch on branches, its hind claws 
being shorter than those of the Meadow Pipit. It runs well and easily, and 
trips over rough ground with singular ease. 
The song of this bird is sweeter and more powerful than that of the preceding 
species, and is generally given in a very curious manner. Taking advantage of 
some convenient tree, it hops from branch to branch, chirping merrily with each 
hop, and, after reaching the summit of the tree, perches for a few moments, and 
then launches itself into the air, for the purpose of continuing its ascent. Having 
accomplished this feat, the bird bursts into a triumphant strain of music, and, * 
fluttering downwards as it sings, alights upon the same tree from which it had 
started, and, by successive leaps, again reaches the ground. 
It is known from the Meadow Pipit by its larger size, flatter head, and shorter 
hind claws. 
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