Red-capped Lark
NameRed-capped Lark
Common NameRed-capped Lark
Scientific NameCalandrella cinerea
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)21.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown, providing camouflage against the ground. It has a distinctive rufous (reddish-brown) crown and a pale supercilium. The underparts are whitish, with a prominent rufous patch on each side of the breast.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a varied, melodious warble, often delivered during display flights. Common calls include a soft 'tseep' or 'chirrup'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of sub-Saharan Africa, extending from South Africa northwards to Ethiopia and Sudan, and also found in parts of the Arabian Peninsula.
Identifying Featuresrufous crown, rufous breast patches, streaky brown upperparts, pale supercilium, small size
Description
The Red-capped Lark is a small, streaky brown lark characterized by its distinctive rufous crown and prominent rufous patches on the sides of its breast. It is typically found foraging on the ground in open grasslands and cultivated fields, feeding on insects and seeds.
