Short-clawed Lark
NameShort-clawed Lark
Common NameShort-clawed Lark
Scientific NameCerthilauda chuana
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)18.5
Weight (g)37.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown with a rufous wash on the rump and wings. Underparts are whitish to buff, with prominent dark streaking on the breast and flanks. It features a pale supercilium and a dark malar stripe, complementing its distinctive long, slightly decurved bill.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a varied and melodious series of whistles and trills, often delivered from a prominent perch or during a display flight. Calls include harsh churring notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southern Africa, found in Botswana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, primarily inhabiting the Kalahari sandveld and associated dry grasslands.
Identifying FeaturesRelatively long, slightly decurved bill, Streaky brown upperparts with rufous wings, Streaked breast on pale underparts, Often perches conspicuously on bushes or small trees, Melodious song
Description
The Short-clawed Lark is a medium-sized lark characterized by its streaky brown plumage, rufous wings, and a relatively long, slightly decurved bill. It typically perches conspicuously on bushes or small trees in dry grasslands and savannas, often delivering its melodious song from an elevated position.
