New Zealand Pipits (Anthus novaeseelandiae) occur in four subspecies. Those on Campbell Island are of the Auckland Island subspecies and are the most southerly occurring of the species. This cool southern location probably explains why they look far more puffy and rounded than their more northerly relatives. They also seem to have a warmer, yellowish colour than those I see on the main islands of New Zealand.

New Zealand Pipits breed between August and March so when we see them on Campbell Island thay have been hard at work for some months and often looking a bit ragged. They seem quite abundant and approachable so make co-operative subjects.

The dracophyllum at the lower elevations is a favoured foraging habitat and makes for nice textured surrounds. The challenge is catch a bird sharply focused in a pleasing pose as they can move quite quickly.

For more information on New Zealand Pipits see their New Zealand Birds Online page.

Photos with Nikon D850 and Nikkor 500mm f5.6PF lens.