Meadow Pipit.

It's not only seabirds at Troup, this pipit and others were fluttering away at the top of Troup in the field next to the fence. It is a meadow pipit isn't it?

  • Yes it is! The thin bill, pink legs, brown plumage and various streaky bits rule out most other species. Keep an eye out for Rock Pipits at Troup Head as well (darker grey/brown plumage, dark legs, slightly stronger bill and 'messier' streaks) - they are usually right on the cliff tops. You can also see a variety of other small birds including Skylarks, Yellowhammers and Linnets on the walk to the cliffs (and Brown Hares are usually quite active at this time of year). The gorse by the car park can be attractive to migrants: Black Redstart, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Lesser Whitethroat and Spotted Flycatcher are amongst the ones that have been seen in recent years - and that's with very few people checking. It's definitely worth a look if the winds are in the east!