Black-eared Sparrow-Lark
NameBlack-eared Sparrow-Lark
Common NameBlack-eared Sparrow-Lark
Scientific NameEremopterix australis
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsMales are predominantly sooty black over the head, underparts, and back, with contrasting chestnut-brown wing coverts. The bill is pale and conical. Females are much duller, sandy-brown with dark streaking on the upperparts and paler, unstreaked underparts, lacking the extensive black of the male.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a soft, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'tsip' call, often given in flight. Males also produce a short, musical song, typically delivered during display flights.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southern Africa, primarily inhabiting the dry interior regions of South Africa, extending into parts of Namibia and Botswana.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Dark, sooty black plumage (male), Chestnut-brown wing coverts (male), Pale conical bill, Ground-dwelling behavior
Description
This small, ground-dwelling lark is characterized by its distinctive dark plumage, particularly in males. It is typically found foraging on open, stony ground in arid environments, where its coloration provides effective camouflage. Males are almost entirely black, contrasting with the duller, streaked brown females.
