Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark

The Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark, a diminutive avian at a mere 11 centimeters, presents a striking appearance. The male of the species boasts a bold plumage with a solid black underbelly and head, save for the brilliant white patches gracing the nape and the area behind the eyes. The upperparts and wings are adorned with a rich chestnut hue, accented by dark streaking. A robust grey bill completes the male's distinctive look.

Identification Tips

To identify the male Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark, look for its contrasting black and white head, chestnut upperparts, and the absence of similar-sized birds with such a unique color pattern. The female, on the other hand, is more subdued with heavily streaked buff-white underparts and head, and a white nape collar. The upperparts are chestnut with mottling, and young birds resemble the female in appearance.

Habitat

This species thrives in open, dry environments such as grasslands and arid savannas. It has a particular fondness for recently scorched earth, open fields, and gravel plains, where it can be seen shuffling along bare patches in search of sustenance.

Distribution

The Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark is a resident breeder in Africa, south of the Sahara Desert. Its range extends from South Sudan to Ethiopia, Eritrea, and northwestern Somalia.

Behaviour

The Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark exhibits both sedentary and nomadic tendencies, with movements that remain somewhat enigmatic. It is known to nest on the ground, laying a single egg. The species often forms mixed flocks with the Chestnut-headed Sparrow-Lark in northeastern Africa, where their ranges overlap.

Similar Species

In regions where their habitats intersect, the Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark may be found in mixed flocks with the Chestnut-headed Sparrow-Lark.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark consists of insects and seeds, which it forages from the ground.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers warranting a higher level of concern.