Sand Lark

Overview

The sand lark (Alaudala raytal) is a small passerine bird in the lark family found in southern Asia. It is somewhat similar to, but smaller than, the short-toed larks. The species is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Approximately 12 to 13 cm in length with a distinctly short-tailed appearance and a fine bill.
• Dull brownish-grey plumage with faintly streaked upperparts and a whitish underside; the lores, supercilium, and area under the eye are white.
• Bill length varies geographically, being short and stubby in the west and long and fine-tipped in the east.
• Song consists of rattling and tinkling notes sung high in the air, followed by dry rattling and whistled notes during descent, often incorporating calls of other birds.

Habitat

Found across the Gangetic plains and along the sandy banks of the Indus, Brahmaputra, Irrawaddy, Chindwin, and Narmada Rivers. The species prefers sandy islands, nearby fields, coastal dunes, and dry mud-flats.

Diet

Feeds on insects and seeds. Forages by making sudden zigzag spurts on sandy banks near water.

Did you know?

The species name 'raytal' is derived from the Hindi word 'retal', which comes from 'réth', meaning sand. During flight, the bird soars, flaps rapidly, and pauses before parachuting down in a series of steps with wings and tail held spread out.