Mongolian Lark
NameMongolian Lark
Common NameMongolian Lark
Scientific NameMelanocorypha mongolica
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)36
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)55
Plumage DetailsThe upperparts are streaky brown with warm rufous tones on the back and wing coverts. The head features a prominent rufous crown stripe bordered by a white supercilium, a dark eye-stripe, and a distinct black malar stripe. The underparts are whitish, with a conspicuous broad black patch on the sides of the breast.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its melodious and varied song, often delivered in flight. It includes trills, whistles, and mimicry.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in Mongolia, parts of Russia (Transbaikalia), and northern China. Winters in southern parts of its breeding range and further south in China.
Identifying FeaturesProminent rufous crown stripe, Broad black patch on the sides of the breast, Dark malar stripe, Rufous wash on upperparts and wing coverts, White outer tail feathers
Description
This medium-sized lark is characterized by its striking head pattern, including a broad rufous crown and a dark malar stripe. It typically forages on the ground in open grasslands and steppes, known for its melodious song often performed in flight.
