White-tailed Lark
NameWhite-tailed Lark
Common NameWhite-tailed Lark
Scientific NameMirafra albicauda
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)26
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown with darker feather centers and pale edges, creating a mottled appearance. Underparts are buffy white, often with fine streaking on the breast. It has a pale supercilium, a dark eye-stripe, and prominent white outer tail feathers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, clear whistles and trills, often delivered during its display flight.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in East Africa, with a range extending across parts of Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Identifying FeaturesStreaky brown plumage, White outer tail feathers (especially in flight), Pale supercilium, Small size, Ground-dwelling behavior
Description
The White-tailed Lark is a small, streaky brown lark typically found in open grasslands and savannas. It forages on the ground for insects and seeds, often perching on low vegetation or rocks. Its most distinctive feature is the white outer tail feathers, visible during flight.
