Anthus

Anthus is a genus of small passerine birds in the family Motacillidae, commonly known as pipits. The genus comprises about 30 species found across most continents, in a wide range of open habitats such as grasslands, tundra, moorland, heath, and coastal areas. Members of Anthus are generally slim, medium-sized birds with brown or olive-brown upperparts, pale streaked underparts, long legs, and a relatively long tail.

Pipit species are predominantly ground foragers. They walk or run through grasses and low vegetation to pick insects, seeds, and other small invertebrates. Their behavior often involves a characteristic upright posture when alert, and they may perform a short, undulating flight to reach new perches. Songs and calls are typically high-pitched and wheezy or twittering, delivered from perches or during flights between foraging sites. Breeding usually takes place on or near the ground, with a cup-shaped nest placed low in vegetation or on the ground, and clutches of three to six eggs.

Distribution is Holarctic with many species also found in temperate or tropical regions. Several pipits are partially migratory or fully migratory, shifting between breeding grounds in temperate regions and wintering areas further south. Notable species include the meadow pipit (Anthus pratensis), rock pipit (Anthus petrosus), water pipit (Anthus spinoletta), and tree pipit (Anthus trivialis). Taxonomically, the genus has undergone reclassification as new evidence has clarified species limits and distributions.

Conservation status varies by species. Most are listed as least concern, but some have restricted ranges or are impacted by habitat loss, especially where grasslands and moist habitats are degraded.