Plocealauda assamica
The Bengal Bush Lark (Plocealauda assamica) is a small, cryptically plumaged passerine bird, often overlooked in its grassy habitats across South and Southeast Asia. Measuring approximately 15 cm in length with a wingspan of around 25 cm and weighing 20-25 grams, it exhibits a predominantly streaky brown dorsal plumage, pale underparts, and a distinctive pale supercilium that aids in identification amidst its camouflaged appearance. Its finely pointed bill is adapted for gleaning insects and ...
Occupies open grasslands, fallow fields, and agricultural lands, typically at low to moderate elevations, avoiding dense forests or arid deserts. Prefers areas with sparse vegetation for foraging but sufficient cover for nesting.
Feeds primarily on insects and their larvae, particularly beetles, grasshoppers, and ants, supplemented by small seeds of grasses and weeds, all gleaned from the ground.
The Bengal Bush Lark is primarily diurnal, spending most of its time foraging on the ground, often in a characteristic stooping posture as it walks or runs short distances. Roosting typically occurs on the ground amidst dense tussocks of grass or low vegetation. Foraging involves meticulously sea...
The Bengal Bush Lark (Plocealauda assamica) is broadly distributed across South and Southeast Asia, inhabiting a resident range that spans from the Indian subcontinent eastward into Indochina. Its primary distribution includes large parts of northeastern India (Assam, West Bengal, Odisha), Bangla...
Least Concern
- The Bengal Bush Lark is a master of camouflage; its streaky brown plumage makes it almost invisible against the dry grass and soil it inhabits. - Males perform impressive "song flights," ascending high into the sky while singing an intricate, melodious song before parachuting back down to earth...