Somali Short-toed Lark
NameSomali Short-toed Lark
Common NameSomali Short-toed Lark
Scientific NameAlaudala somalica
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)17.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are sandy-brown with heavy dark streaking on the crown, mantle, and back. Underparts are whitish, sometimes with faint streaking on the breast. It features a pale supercilium and a dark eye-stripe. The flight feathers are darker brown with pale edges, and the tail is short with dark central feathers and paler outer ones. The bill is pale and conical.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a soft, trilling song often delivered from the ground or during a display flight. Calls are typically short, sharp 'chip' or 'tchip' notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to northeastern Africa, primarily found in Somalia, eastern Ethiopia, and northern Kenya.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Streaky brown upperparts, Pale supercilium, Short, conical bill, Short tail, Ground-dwelling behavior
Description
A small, cryptically colored lark, typically found foraging on the ground in arid and semi-arid environments. Its streaky brown plumage provides excellent camouflage against the bare earth, where it moves quickly to find food.
