Eastern Clapper Lark

The Eastern clapper lark, Mirafra fasciolata, is a modestly sized bird, measuring approximately 15 centimeters in length. It boasts a brown crown and upperparts, which may appear greyer in the northern reaches of its range. The underparts of this bird are a rich rufous, providing a striking contrast to the more subdued tones of its upper body. A robust bill complements its well-adapted form.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Eastern clapper lark, look for its distinctive brown crown and the rich rufous coloration on its underparts. The bird's strong bill is also a key characteristic to note. Its call, an ascending "pooooeeeee," can be a helpful identifier in the field.

Habitat

This species is typically found in the drier regions of southern Africa, where it frequents open grasslands and savannahs. It is a bird that thrives in expansive, open environments where it can forage and perform its display flights.

Distribution

The Eastern clapper lark is distributed across a swath of southern Africa, including parts of Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, and South Africa. Its presence is a common feature in the arid landscapes of these regions.

Behaviour

The Eastern clapper lark is known for its elusive nature, often proving difficult to spot when it is not engaged in its display behavior. It is not a social bird, typically seen alone or in pairs. Its feeding habits are grounded, as it forages for seeds and insects among the dry earth. The bird's display is a captivating sight, beginning with an upward flight accompanied by wing clapping, followed by a parachute-like descent with legs trailing behind.

Song & Calls

The Eastern clapper lark's vocalization is a distinctive ascending "pooooeeeee," which can be heard across the quiet of its natural habitat. This call is an integral part of its identity in the wild.

Similar Species

While the Eastern clapper lark was once considered conspecific with the Cape clapper lark, they have been split into separate species. They, along with the flappet lark, form a superspecies. The Cape clapper lark, also known as the Damara clapper lark, is an alternate name for a different species and should not be confused with the Eastern clapper lark.

Diet and Feeding

The Eastern clapper lark is predominantly a ground feeder, subsisting on a diet of seeds and insects that it picks from the dry soils of its habitat.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Eastern clapper lark as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population levels that would warrant a higher degree of conservation action.