Monotonous Lark

The Monotonous Lark, known scientifically as Mirafra passerina, is a modestly adorned species of lark, a member of the Alaudidae family. It is a bird that graces the southern African landscape with its presence.

Identification Tips

To identify the Monotonous Lark, one should look for its relatively nondescript plumage, which is well-suited to its dry savanna habitat. It is important not to confuse it with the similarly named White-tailed Lark or White-tailed Bush-Lark, Mirafra albicauda, as they are distinct species.

Habitat

The Monotonous Lark thrives in the natural settings of dry savanna and subtropical or tropical dry lowland grasslands, where it blends seamlessly with the earthy tones of the landscape.

Distribution

This lark has a broad range, extending across six countries in southern Africa: Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Its global extent of occurrence is an impressive 1,400,000 km².

Behaviour

The Monotonous Lark is known for its nomadic tendencies, moving across the vast landscapes of southern Africa in response to the whims of nature and the availability of resources.

Song & Calls

The species is named for its song, which is a repetitive and indeed monotonous series of notes that can be heard across the quiet expanses of its habitat.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Monotonous Lark as Least Concern, indicating that, for now, this species is not at immediate risk of decline.