Crested Lark
NameCrested Lark
Common NameCrested Lark
Scientific NameGalerida cristata
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)31
Length (cm)17
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsOverall sandy brown plumage, heavily streaked with dark brown on the upperparts, breast, and flanks. The belly is whitish. It has a distinctive, erect, pointed crest. The tail is relatively short with rufous outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a varied, melodious, and often prolonged series of whistles, trills, and imitations, often delivered from a perch or in flight. Its call is a clear, ringing 'tree-lee' or 'twee-twee-too'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of Europe, Asia, and northern Africa, extending from Portugal and Ireland eastward to Korea and China, and south through the Middle East to parts of the Sahara.
Identifying Featuresprominent spiky crest, streaked brown plumage, pale belly, short tail with rufous outer feathers, stout bill
Description
The Crested Lark is a medium-sized lark characterized by its prominent, spiky crest. It is typically found in open, dry habitats, including cultivated land and urban fringes, where it forages on the ground for seeds and insects.
