Calendulauda poecilosterna
The Pink-breasted Lark (Calendulauda poecilosterna) is a strikingly distinctive member of the Alaudidae family, known for its unique plumage among its lark relatives. This small to medium-sized passerine, typically measuring 14-16 cm (5.5-6.3 inches) and weighing 20-28g, is characterized by its dull grey-brown, streaked upperparts which provide excellent camouflage against the arid ground. Its most notable field mark is the vibrant pinkish-buff to rosy wash across its breast, contrasting shar...
Found in arid and semi-arid grasslands, open savanna, and shrublands with scattered acacia trees, typically at low to moderate elevations.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on beetles, grasshoppers, ants, and termites, supplemented with seeds, especially during drier periods. Forages by gleaning from the ground.
Pink-breasted Larks are diurnal, spending most of their time foraging on the ground. Males are highly territorial during the breeding season, establishing their domains through elaborate song flights, ascending high into the sky, hovering, and descending with fluttering wings, or by singing from ...
The Pink-breasted Lark is endemic to East Africa, displaying a relatively widespread distribution across arid and semi-arid regions. Its range extends from central-southern Somalia and eastern Ethiopia, stretching southwards through Kenya, northeastern Uganda, and into northern and eastern Tanzan...
Least Concern
- The 'pink-breasted' feature is genuinely striking, making it one of the most vividly colored larks in Africa. - Its scientific name, Calendulauda poecilosterna, literally translates to 'marigold lark with a varied breast', referencing its distinct plumage. - Males perform impressive song flight...