Dupont's Lark

The Dupont's lark (Chersophilus duponti) is a rather inconspicuous bird when observed on the ground. It measures 17–18 cm in length, presenting a slender build with a long neck and legs, and a fine, slightly curved bill. A pale crown stripe adorns its head, while its breast is marked with dark streaks. The plumage of the north-western subspecies is predominantly brown-grey above and pale below, whereas the south-eastern subspecies boasts rufous upperparts.

Identification Tips

To identify Dupont's lark, look for its slim stature, long neck, and legs, as well as the fine bill that curves slightly. The pale stripe on the crown and the dark-streaked breast are also key features. The coloration varies between subspecies, with the north-western variant being brown-grey and the south-eastern one displaying a rufous hue on the upperparts.

Habitat

This species is typically found in open sandy semi-deserts or steppes with sparse grass cover, where it can blend into its surroundings.

Distribution

Dupont's lark graces the landscapes of northern Africa, from Algeria to Egypt, and has also made its home in parts of Spain and France. It is a sedentary bird, meaning it does not migrate but remains in its breeding areas year-round.

Behaviour

Dupont's lark is known for its elusive nature, often seeking refuge when disturbed. It can be challenging to spot as it scurries through the vegetation, but it may occasionally be seen singing from the edge of a low bush, standing erect and vigilant.

Song & Calls

The song of Dupont's lark is a distinctive, thin, and melancholic whistling phrase that can be surprisingly difficult to pinpoint due to its ventriloquial quality. It also emits a nasal whistle, with these vocalizations most commonly heard at dawn, dusk, or during the night.

Breeding

The Dupont's lark nests on the ground in its preferred semi-desert or steppe habitats. The typical clutch consists of three to four eggs.

Diet and Feeding

A diet of seeds and insects sustains the Dupont's lark, foraged from the ground within its habitat.

Conservation status

The Dupont's lark is currently classified as Vulnerable. In Spain, the population has seen a significant decline, estimated at 3.9% annually, with a 32.8% decrease observed between 2008 and 2018. This decline has led to its status being elevated to endangered in certain Spanish regions, such as Andalusia and Castile-León.