South Georgia pipit facts for kids
Quick facts for kids South Georgia pipit |
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|---|---|
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| On South Georgia, British overseas territory | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Anthus
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| Species: |
antarcticus
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The South Georgia pipit (Anthus antarcticus) is a small bird, about the size of a sparrow. It lives only on the South Georgia islands, which are located near the Antarctic Peninsula. This special bird is the only songbird found in Antarctica. It is also the only type of passerine (a group of birds that includes songbirds) on South Georgia.
This pipit builds its nests from dried grass. It often chooses to build them inside tall, clumpy tussac grass. Each year, a female pipit usually lays four eggs. The South Georgia pipit eats small insects, spiders, and even bits of food found on the beaches.
For a long time, the pipit was in danger because of rats that humans brought to the islands. People also caused other harm to the environment. Because of these threats, the South Georgia pipit became the symbol for a big project. This project, called the Habitat Restoration (Rat Eradication) project, started removing rats from South Georgia in 2011. By 2015, the main part of the project was finished, and in 2018, it was confirmed that the rats were gone.
Today, if you visit Prion Island or the beaches of South Georgia, you might be lucky enough to see this unique bird!
About the South Georgia Pipit
The South Georgia pipit is a small, sturdy bird. It is about 17 cm (6.7 in) long and weighs around 36 g (1.3 oz). It has long legs and a long claw on its back toe. Its tail is quite short.
