Mongolian Short-toed Lark
NameMongolian Short-toed Lark
Common NameMongolian Short-toed Lark
Scientific NameCalandrella dukhunensis
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)21.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are sandy-brown with dark streaking, providing excellent camouflage. Underparts are whitish, often with a faint buff wash on the flanks, and a distinctive dark patch on the side of the breast/neck. It features a prominent white supercilium and pale outer tail feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts call is typically a short, sharp 'chip' or 'tchip', often given in flight. The song is a series of trills and whistles, delivered during display flights.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Mongolia, northern China, and parts of southern Siberia. It is migratory, wintering south to India, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Middle East.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Streaked sandy-brown upperparts, White supercilium, Dark patch on side of breast, Short bill, Pale outer tail feathers
Description
The Mongolian Short-toed Lark is a small, pale lark typically found in open, arid or semi-arid environments. It forages on the ground for insects and seeds, often blending seamlessly with its dry grassland habitat.
