Meadow pipits are delightful birds to watch. They flit around in short jerky flights, often accompanied by high pitched piping calls. Often a single bird will contentedly perch on a post or a wall before lifting off without warning to join another meadow pipit flying by. Such flights are usually short and full of energy, giving the impression that these birds take to the wing simply to enjoy the experience.

Meadow pipits are the most numerous upland bird yet are often overlooked by upland visitors in search of more notable species. During harsh winter months meadow pipits will head to lower terrain and tend to drift away from their northern habitats, thereby increasing numbers to be found in counties of southern England.