Rufous-tailed Lark

Overview

The rufous-tailed lark (Ammomanes phoenicura), also known as the rufous-tailed finch-lark, is a ground bird found in the drier open stony habitats of India and parts of Pakistan. It is currently classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Dull brown plumage that camouflages with the soil, featuring a reddish rump and a distinctive rufous tail with a dark band that narrows towards the sides to form a triangular shape.
• A large, wide, and curved finch-like bill with a fleshy base on the lower mandible and horn-grey remainder.
• Flesh-coloured legs and a hindclaw that is as long as the hindtoe and moderately curved.
• Lightly streaked dark brown throat, with less streaking observed in young birds.

Habitat

This species inhabits low altitude dry regions in open stony habitats without significant tree cover. It is resident mainly within India south of the Ganges, extending west to Kutch and the Aravallis of Rajasthan, and acts as a summer visitor in northern Punjab, Pakistan, and southern Nepal.

Diet

The rufous-tailed lark forages on the ground for grass seeds, grain, and insects. It typically walks and makes quick dashes to capture insects, and when disturbed, it crouches and remains still until approached very closely.

Did you know?

During the breeding season, males perform a courtship display that involves flying up steeply, nose-diving, and pulling up in a series of stepped wavy dips accompanied by calling.