Singing behaviour and perch use by male African Rock Pipits Anthus crenatus : study area and methods

African Rock Pipits were studied near Bloemfontein in the central Free State province of South Africa from March 1995 to December 2001. Study sites were characterized by rocky hills with gentle to steep slopes, vegetated with Olea and Buddleja spp. shrubs and with large, stacked rocks near the summits. Increased vocal activity was noted between September and April, with a peak from October-January. In summer, vocalizations commenced after sunrise and peaked at II :00. In winter, vocalization peaked from 07:00-09:00 and birds were less vocal during the rest of the day. Song posts included large rocks, small rocks, shrubs and dry branches, with large rocks usually situated at the highest points of hills. Small rocks on slopes were in open, exposed areas while shrubs were used throughout the day with peak use in the early mornings; this coincided with peak singing activities. Shrub song posts were used most frequently in spring and summer. The high temperature of rocks exposed to the sun is a possible reason why these are used during certain times of the day only.