Rufous-tailed Lark

The Rufous-tailed Lark, also known as Ammomanes phoenicura, presents itself as a modestly adorned bird, blending seamlessly with the arid landscapes it inhabits. Its plumage is a dull brown, mirroring the hues of the soil it forages upon. This bird is a master of camouflage, with both males and females sporting similar feathering, making them indistinguishable in the wild.

Identification Tips

In the field, one may identify the Rufous-tailed Lark by its rufous coloration, particularly the reddish rump and a distinctive dark tail band that narrows towards the sides, forming a triangular shape. The throat is adorned with light streaks of dark brown. The species also features a wide, curved beak, with nostrils concealed by feathers, and a hindclaw equal in length to the hindtoe and moderately curved.

Habitat

The Rufous-tailed Lark favors the drier, open, and stony terrains of India and parts of Pakistan, eschewing areas with significant tree cover.

Distribution

This bird is predominantly found at low altitudes within India, south of the Ganges, extending west to Kutch and the Aravallis of Rajasthan. It is a summer visitor to northern Punjab in Pakistan and southern Nepal. Notably absent from Sri Lanka, the species is also largely missing from the Western Ghats region, particularly Kerala.

Behaviour

The Rufous-tailed Lark is often observed on the ground, foraging in pairs or small groups. It exhibits a courtship display wherein the male ascends steeply, then executes a series of nose-dives and wavy dips while calling. When disturbed, these birds may crouch and remain motionless, flushing only when one draws near.

Song & Calls

The Rufous-tailed Lark's vocal repertoire includes short burbling or chirruping notes, often heard during the male's aerial courtship display or while perched.

Breeding

Breeding season spans from February to May. The male's display flight is a key component of mating rituals. Nests are crafted in ground depressions, and clutches typically consist of two to four eggs, which are creamy or pale yellowish-white with denser spots at the broader end. The incubation period remains undetermined.

Similar Species

While similar species exist, the Rufous-tailed Lark can be distinguished by its unique tail pattern and coloration.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Rufous-tailed Lark includes grass seeds, grains, and insects, which they adeptly forage for on the ground.

Conservation status

The Rufous-tailed Lark is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.