Wagtails & Pipits in Cheshire

6 species matching this filter.

All birds in CheshireView family page

Cheshire's diverse landscapes, from the Dee Estuary mudflats to upland moorlands and lush river valleys, support six species of wagtails and pipits. The Grey Wagtail is a characteristic sight along the county's fast-flowing streams and weirs, while the Meadow Pipit is abundant on open grasslands and moorland edges. Scarcer visitors such as the Water Pipit and Tree Pipit add seasonal interest for keen birdwatchers exploring the region.

Meadow Pipit
Meadow PipitSmallest · 14cm
to
Grey Wagtail
Grey WagtailLargest · 20cm
Ranges from the Meadow Pipit (14cm) to the Grey Wagtail (20cm)2 year-round residents
Grey Wagtail

Grey Wagtail

Motacilla cinereaLC

An uncommon resident found along streams and rivers, bobbing its long tail on waterside rocks and weirs.

Year-round

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Meadow Pipit

Meadow Pipit

Anthus pratensisLC

An uncommon resident breeding on upland moorland edges in eastern Cheshire. More widespread in winter when birds move to lowland fields and wetlands.

Year-round

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Rock Pipit

Rock Pipit

Anthus petrosusLC

A rare winter visitor to Cheshire's coast, foraging along rocky shores and saltmarshes from November to March.

Nov–Mar

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Tree Pipit

Tree Pipit

Anthus trivialisLC

A rare summer breeder found on wooded heathland and woodland clearings in the east, delivering its song in parachuting display flights.

Apr–Sep

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Water Pipit

Water Pipit

Anthus spinolettaLC

A rare passage visitor recorded briefly in February and November. Look for it around watercress beds, reservoir margins, and muddy wetland edges.

Nov–Feb

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Yellow Wagtail

Yellow Wagtail

Motacilla flavaLC

An uncommon summer breeder favouring lowland pastures and arable fields, arriving in April and departing by September.

Apr–Sep

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Frequently Asked Questions

Wagtails & Pipits in Cheshire | Birdfact