White-winged Lark
NameWhite-winged Lark
Common NameWhite-winged Lark
Scientific NameAlauda leucoptera
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)52
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown, with a rufous crown and nape. Underparts are whitish, often with some streaking on the breast. The most distinctive feature is the large white patch on the wing, formed by white primary coverts and secondaries, which is visible even when the wing is folded. The tail is dark with white outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a rich, melodious, and varied series of trills, whistles, and warbles, often delivered during a display flight high above the ground. Calls include a soft 'chup' or 'prrrit'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across the steppes of southern Russia and Central Asia, extending into parts of Ukraine and Kazakhstan. Winters south to the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of the Indian subcontinent.
Identifying FeaturesProminent white wing patch, Rufous crown and nape, Streaky brown upperparts, Pale underparts, Medium-sized lark
Description
The White-winged Lark is a medium-sized lark characterized by its prominent white wing patches, especially visible in flight. It typically inhabits open, dry grasslands and steppes, where it forages on the ground for seeds and insects.
