Beesley's Lark
NameBeesley's Lark
Common NameBeesley's Lark
Scientific NameChersomanes beesleyi
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)17.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are sandy to rufous-brown, heavily streaked with dark brown. Underparts are whitish with fine dark streaking on the breast and flanks. It features a pale supercilium (eyebrow stripe) and a dark eye-stripe, with a horn-colored, slender bill.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of high-pitched, thin, sibilant notes, often described as 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'tsip-tsip-tsip', delivered from a perch or in flight.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to a very restricted area in north-central Tanzania, primarily found in the Simanjiro Plains and adjacent dry grassland habitats.
Identifying FeaturesSmall, streaky brown plumage, Pale supercilium, Slender bill, Upright posture, Critically endangered status, Restricted range in Tanzania's dry grasslands
Description
Beesley's Lark is a small, streaky brown lark with an upright posture and a slender bill. It is typically found foraging on the ground in dry, short-grass plains, often blending seamlessly with its grassy surroundings.
