Crested Lark

Overview

The crested lark (Galerida cristata) is a small, non-migratory songbird widespread across temperate Eurasia and northern Africa. It is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, with a global population of mature individuals estimated between 22 and 91.2 million.

Identification

• Roughly the size of a Eurasian skylark, with a height of 17 cm, a wingspan of 29 to 38 cm, and a weight of 37 to 55 g.
• A small, brown bird with a short tail featuring light brown outer feathers and downy but sparse plumage that appears whitish.
• Possesses a conspicuous crest that is most pronounced during territorial displays or when singing.
• Displays reddish underwings in flight and can be distinguished from the Thekla lark by its bill and the Thekla's heavier black-brown streaks and grey underwing.

Habitat

This species breeds across most of temperate Eurasia from Portugal to north-eastern China and eastern India, as well as in Africa south to Niger. It is a common bird of dry, open country, frequently observed by roadsides, in cereal fields, or on small sandy patches near railways and airfields. While non-migratory, it is occasionally recorded as a rare vagrant to Great Britain.

Diet

Largely vegetarian, the crested lark primarily feeds on grains and seeds such as oats, wheat, and barley. It will also consume insects, particularly beetles, scavenging food from the ground or digging it up. Juveniles are fed by both parents and leave the nest before they are capable of foraging independently.

Did you know?

The 13th-century saint Francis of Assisi considered the crested lark a bird of special significance due to the plain earth-coloured plumage and its perceived humility, as it forages for grains along the wayside.