Malabar Lark

Overview

The Malabar lark, also known as the Malabar crested lark (Galerida malabarica), is a small lark species found in western India. It belongs to the family Alaudidae and is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• A smallish lark, slightly smaller than the Eurasian skylark, with a long spiky erectile crest.
• Plumage is dark-streaked reddish brown, making it greyer than the skylark and lacking white wing and tail edges.
• The belly is white, and both sexes appear similar.
• Distinguished from the similar crested lark by its smaller size and reddish-brown streaking rather than a grey plumage.

Habitat

The Malabar lark is found in western India, where it inhabits open country, cultivation, and scrub. These habitats are often found at some altitude.

Diet

The bird feeds on seeds and insects, with a particular focus on insects during the breeding season.

Did you know?

Originally classified in the genus Alauda, it was later moved to its current genus, Galerida. Some authorities have also considered the Thekla lark to be a subspecies of the Malabar lark.