Crested Lark

The Crested Lark (Galerida cristata) is a small, robust passerine bird, approximately 17 cm in height with a wingspan ranging from 29 to 38 cm. It weighs between 37 and 55 grams. Both sexes are similar in appearance, with a brown plumage that is paler on the underparts and a distinctive crest on the head, which is raised prominently during displays. The tail is short with light brown outer feathers, and the underwings exhibit a reddish hue in flight.

Identification Tips

Adult Crested Larks are characterized by their brown, streaky plumage with a paler underside. The young birds can be identified by the additional spots on their backs. The species' most notable feature is its crest, which can be seen at all times but is particularly prominent during territorial or courtship displays. In flight, the reddish underwings are a key identification marker.

Habitat

The Crested Lark is found in dry, open landscapes such as fields, roadsides, and wastelands. It has adapted well to human-altered environments and can often be seen in areas with sparse vegetation, such as sandy patches near railways, docks, and airfields.

Distribution

This lark has a wide range across temperate Eurasia, from Portugal to northeastern China and eastern India, and in Africa down to Niger. It is a resident bird, meaning it does not migrate seasonally. However, it is a rare vagrant to Great Britain.

Behaviour

The Crested Lark is known for its undulating flight pattern and its melodious, warbling song, which can be heard from high in the sky or at ground level. It is a territorial bird that sings to establish its presence, often from a height of 30 to 60 meters.

Song & Calls

The song of the Crested Lark is a liquid series of notes, often transcribed as "whee-whee-wheeoo" or "twee-tee-too." It is a characteristic sound of open country in its range.

Breeding

The Crested Lark nests on the ground in shallow depressions, using dead grasses and roots to construct its nest. It typically lays three to five brown, finely speckled eggs, which hatch after about 11 to 12 days. The young are precocial and leave the nest early, becoming fully fledged at around 15 to 16 days old. The species often raises two broods per year.

Diet and Feeding

Primarily vegetarian, the Crested Lark feeds on grains and seeds such as oats, wheat, and barley. It also consumes insects, particularly beetles. Juveniles are fed by both parents and start foraging on their own shortly before they are capable of flight.

Conservation status

The Crested Lark is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, indicating it is not currently at risk of extinction. The global population is estimated to be between 22 million and 91.2 million mature individuals, with a noted decline in Europe since 1982.