Oriental Skylark

Overview

The Oriental skylark (Alauda gulgula) is a species of lark found in the Sino-Indian region and parts of central Asia. It is a small bird that inhabits open grasslands and is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Identification

• Length between 15.5–18 cm with a weight of 24–30 g, generally smaller than the Eurasian skylark.
• Streaked, yellow-brown upper plumage featuring a short crest and white outer tail feathers.
• Characterised by a longer, more pointed bill and shorter tail and wings compared to similar species.
• Males may hover in the air while singing to attract a mate.

Habitat

Found in open areas with short vegetation such as grasslands, marshes, and lake edges, ranging from sea level to 4,300 m altitude. The species breeds across the Sino-Indian region and parts of central Asia, with some northern populations migrating south to areas including Israel and northeastern Egypt in winter. It avoids forested areas but may utilise large forest clearings.

Diet

Feeds on seeds and insects in open grassland habitats.

Did you know?

The specific epithet gulgula is uncertain in meaning but may refer to the bird's song, as gula is Latin for 'throat', or possibly to the colour of a sweet known as gulgula that resembles a doughnut.