Corypha kurrae
The Highland Lark (Corypha kurrae) is a robust, medium-sized passerine native to the rugged alpine and subalpine grasslands of specific high-altitude regions. Measuring 16-18 cm (6.3-7.1 in) in length with a wingspan of 30-34 cm (11.8-13.4 in) and weighing 30-45 grams (1.1-1.6 oz), its plumage is a masterful camouflage of earthy browns, heavily streaked with darker tones above and buffy-white below. A distinctive feature is its erectile, often spiky crest, which becomes more prominent during ...
Highland Lark primarily inhabits alpine and subalpine grasslands, montane steppes, and rocky plateaus, typically found at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 meters (6,500-16,400 ft).
The diet of the Highland Lark consists primarily of invertebrates, especially insects and their larvae during the breeding season, supplemented by a variety of grass seeds, small berries, and plant matter during colder months, all foraged by ground gleaning.
Highland Larks are predominantly diurnal, spending their days foraging on the ground and roosting in shallow depressions or sheltered spots among tussocks and rocks at night. Their foraging strategy involves meticulous ground gleaning for insects and seeds, often interspersed with short, agile ae...
The Highland Lark is endemic to the high-altitude regions of the Central Kurraean Highlands, a vast montane system spanning several (fictional) nations. Its breeding range extends across alpine meadows and montane steppes from 2,500 to 5,000 meters (8,200-16,400 ft) elevation during the brief sum...
Least Concern
- The Highland Lark performs one of the most extended and highest song flights among all passerines, often ascending silently to over 500 meters (1,600 ft) before beginning a continuous song that can last 10-15 minutes. - Its ground-nesting strategy includes meticulously embedding small stones ar...