Stomach stones in Meadow PipitsAnthus pratensis

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Abstract
Stomach stones were found in 131 of 303 meadow pipits shot in North Wales [UK]. Previous literature on the subject is reviewed; most studies have found such stones or grit in only a minority of birds examined. If grit is important as an aid to digestion, as usually suggested, it seems odd that relatively few birds contain any. A possible alternative explanation is that such minerals are ingested for the sake of trace elements needed by the birds.