Evidence is adduced to show that two species of Plain-backed Pipit occur in Africa with partially overlapping ranges, but with a considerable degree of ecological segregation. The races are denned, those of South and Central Africa being treated with rather fuller detail. The clines exhibited are described, and also a complex of hybrid populations of an unstable nature in Uganda and adjacent areas. Reasons are given why it is not advisable to include Anthus pallidiventris in either of these species on present knowledge.