Malabar Lark
NameMalabar Lark
Common NameMalabar Lark
Scientific NameGalerida malabarica
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)25.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown with darker streaks, providing camouflage. Underparts are buffy white, with distinct dark streaks on the breast. It features a pale supercilium and a rufous patch on the primary coverts, which is particularly noticeable in flight.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a rich, varied, and melodious song, often incorporating mimicry of other birds. Common calls are a soft 'churr' and a sharp 'twee', frequently given from a prominent perch or during an undulating display flight.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Western Ghats and associated hill ranges of peninsular India, primarily found in the states of Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
Identifying FeaturesProminent pointed crest, Streaky brown plumage, Pale supercilium, Rufous patch on primary coverts (visible in flight), Melodious and varied song
Description
The Malabar Lark is a small, streaky brown passerine bird characterized by its prominent, pointed crest. It is typically found in dry, open habitats across its range, where it delivers a varied and melodious song from perches or during display flights.
