Cape Long-billed Lark
NameCape Long-billed Lark
Common NameCape Long-billed Lark
Scientific NameCerthilauda curvirostris
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)40
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown, often with a rufous wash, and darker streaks. Underparts are whitish to buff, with heavy dark streaking on the breast and flanks. It features a pale supercilium and a dark malar stripe, with the most distinctive feature being its long, dark, decurved bill.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its melodious, varied, and often mimetic song, delivered from a prominent perch or in a display flight. The song includes whistles, trills, and warbles.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Western and Northern Cape provinces of South Africa.
Identifying Featureslong decurved bill, streaky brown plumage, pale supercilium, melodious song, prominent perching behavior
Description
The Cape Long-billed Lark is a large, streaky brown lark characterized by its remarkably long, slender, and decurved bill. It is often observed perched prominently on bushes or fence posts, where it delivers its rich and varied song.
