Woodlark
NameWoodlark
Common NameWoodlark
Scientific NameLullula arborea
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)28.5
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown with darker centers to feathers, giving a mottled appearance. Underparts are pale, whitish, with streaking on the breast and flanks. It has a prominent pale supercilium (eyebrow stripe) that meets at the nape, and a dark eye-stripe. The tail is short with white outer feathers, though not always visible.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a distinctive, melodious, fluting, and melancholic series of 'lu-lu-lu' or 'twee-loo-twee-loo' notes, often accelerating and rising in pitch. It is typically delivered from a perch or during a high, circling display flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across most of Europe, extending into parts of North Africa and western Asia. Northern populations are migratory, moving south for winter, while southern populations are largely resident.
Identifying FeaturesShort tail, Prominent pale supercilium meeting at nape, Streaky brown plumage, Melodious, fluting song, Often sings in spiraling display flight
Description
The Woodlark is a small, streaky brown lark with a relatively short tail and a distinctive head pattern. It is renowned for its beautiful, melancholic, and fluting song, often delivered during a characteristic spiraling display flight.
