Wagtails & Pipits in Hampshire
6 species matching this filter.
Hampshire's diverse landscapes, from chalk streams and water meadows to heathlands and coastal marshes, provide excellent habitat for the wagtail and pipit family. Six species have been recorded in the county, including the elegant Grey Wagtail along fast-flowing rivers, the increasingly scarce Yellow Wagtail on lowland farmland, and the Rock Pipit along the Solent coastline. Seasonal visitors such as the Tree Pipit and Water Pipit add further interest for birdwatchers throughout the year.
Grey Wagtail
Motacilla cinereaLC
An uncommon resident found along Hampshire's streams and rivers year-round. Bobs its tail constantly while foraging on rocks and weirs.
Year-round
Meadow Pipit
Anthus pratensisLC
A common resident of open grassland and heathland, particularly the New Forest. Numbers increase in winter with birds from upland areas.
Year-round
Rock Pipit
Anthus petrosusLC
An uncommon resident found along Hampshire's rocky and shingle coastline. Forages among seaweed and rocks on the Solent shore year-round.
Year-round
Tree Pipit
Anthus trivialisLC
An uncommon summer visitor breeding on Hampshire's heathlands and open woodland. Delivers its distinctive song during a parachuting display flight.
Apr–Sep
Water Pipit
Anthus spinolettaLC
A rare winter visitor to Hampshire's watercress beds and wet meadows, present from November to April. Easily overlooked among Meadow Pipits.
Nov–Apr
Yellow Wagtail
Motacilla flavaLC
An uncommon and declining summer breeder found in damp meadows and arable fields. Arrives from April and departs by October.
Apr–Oct