A large, dark, boldly marked pipit with a pinkish base to the bill. Pairs breed in alpine scrub and grassland above 2000 meters of elevation from October to April, before dispersing to wintering grounds presumed to be in Central Africa. It runs between bushes foraging on the ground, and occasionally perches up to sing. It has a long undulating display flight; the flight call is a 2-syllable “chiREE,” slower and deeper than other pipits. The similar African Pipit differs from the Mountain Pipit by having a yellow (not pink) base to the bill, white (not buff) outer tail feathers, and less heavily marked plumage. The Long-billed Pipit is more slender, with a longer tail and a less boldly marked face, back, and chest.