Resident 
Breeding
Non-breeding
Migratory
Uncertain
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Experiences with species Although I had been in Lesotho around Sani Top several times, I had never been in summer, so the Mountain Pipits would not have been likely to be around. We decided to make a detour on our Natal trip via Lesotho and stop overnight at Sani Top Chalets. This gave us time to explore Lesotho a bit better, in particular the area around Sani Top. Armed with information from Pieter la Grange who had recently seen and photographed the Pipits, some co-ords from Natworld sightings, and some studying of Faansie's book, we headed in search of these birds. We were well rewarded, our first stop within 100 metres of Peter Braat's Natworld record, where we saw the Pipits foraging in the fields. They then flew over us and landed much closer to the road. I got a little closer to photograph them, and heard a slightly different call - soon I found it was the juvenile begging for food! The following morning I took an early morning stroll up the hillside near the chalets, main aim to see if I could spot some Lammergeiers on the cliffsides. I ended up finding another group of Pipits, this time taking food to the nest. From as close as I was willing to get to the nest, I could see there was at least one young bird in there, almost fully feathered. I sat a respectable distance away and watched the family activities, then left them in peace, shortly thereafter finding my initial target: 3 Lammergeiers battling against the strong wind, right over the chalets. A cold but worthwhile morning walk. Other names: - |
Resident Breeding
Non-breeding
Migratory
Uncertain