Flappet Lark
NameFlappet Lark
Common NameFlappet Lark
Scientific NameMirafra rufocinnamomea
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)21.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are rufous-brown, heavily streaked with dark brown to black. Underparts are buffy-white, with prominent dark streaking on the breast and flanks. It has a pale supercilium and a dark eye-stripe.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive 'flapping' sound produced by its wings during its display flight, often accompanied by a high-pitched, trilling song.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south to Angola and South Africa.
Identifying Featuresstreaky brown plumage, distinctive wing-flapping display flight, pale supercilium, short tail
Description
This small, streaky brown lark is known for its distinctive aerial display, where it produces a characteristic 'flapping' sound with its wings. It typically inhabits open woodlands and grasslands across its African range, foraging on the ground for insects and seeds.
