Plocealauda erythrocephala
The Indochinese Bush Lark, *Plocealauda erythrocephala*, is a small, cryptically plumaged songbird belonging to the family Alaudidae, though recent molecular phylogenetics suggests its placement in the resurrected genus *Plocealauda* from its historical *Mirafra* classification. Measuring approximately 13-15 cm in length with a wingspan of about 22-25 cm and weighing 18-25 grams, this lark exhibits a generally rufous-brown coloration heavily streaked with dark brown on its upperparts, providi...
Primarily inhabits dry grasslands, open scrub, savannas, and cultivated fields, often at lower elevations. It favors areas with scattered bushes and tussocky grass for cover and nesting.
Consumes a mixed diet primarily consisting of small insects and their larvae, supplemented with grass seeds and other small plant matter. It forages by gleaning food directly from the ground and low vegetation.
The Indochinese Bush Lark is primarily diurnal, spending most of its day foraging on the ground, often in a skulking manner to remain inconspicuous. Males are renowned for their impressive aerial song flights, ascending vertically to considerable heights before parachuting back down while continu...
The Indochinese Bush Lark is a resident species found across a wide expanse of Southeast Asia, primarily spanning Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. In Myanmar, its distribution is widespread, occurring throughout the central lowlands and extending into Shan State, favoring dry open ...
Least Concern
- The Indochinese Bush Lark was recently proposed to be moved from the genus *Mirafra* to a resurrected genus *Plocealauda*, reflecting new genetic understanding of lark diversity. - Its scientific name, *erythrocephala*, means "red-headed" in Greek, referring to the characteristic rufous wash on...