Tawny Pipits prefer open, dry, and often sandy habitats such as steppes, semi-deserts, open grasslands, heathland, fallow fields, and sparsely vegetated arable land. They are typically found on the ground, walking steadily or running short distances.

Spotting Tawny Pipits can be challenging due to their cryptic coloration and ground-dwelling habits. Look for them walking on bare ground or short vegetation. The most reliable way to observe them during the breeding season is by listening for their characteristic song flight, where the male ascends with a repetitive, often melodious 'chip-chip-chip' or 'twee-twee-twee' song before parachuting back down. Their call is a short, sharp 'tchip' or 'chup'.

They are most active during daylight hours. During the breeding season (spring to early summer), males are particularly noticeable during their display flights. As a migratory species, they are present in their breeding grounds from spring to late summer/early autumn before migrating to their wintering grounds.