Alauda razae
The Raso Lark (Alauda razae) is a small, pale passerine bird, a critically endangered species endemic to the tiny, uninhabited Raso islet in the Cape Verde archipelago. Measuring approximately 13-17 cm (5-6.7 inches) in length and weighing around 20-25 grams, it presents a sandy-buff or grayish-brown plumage, heavily streaked on the upperparts and breast, with a paler, unstreaked belly. A distinctive, short crest, often flattened but noticeable when raised, and pale supercilium are key field ...
This lark exclusively inhabits the arid, rocky, and sparsely vegetated volcanic Raso islet, favoring areas with low-lying grasses and scrub in its low-elevation landscape.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on small beetles, ants, and other invertebrates, supplemented with seeds from the sparse island vegetation.
Raso Larks are diurnal, typically active throughout the day, foraging on the ground among rocks and sparse vegetation. Their foraging strategy involves walking and running, often pecking and gleaning insects and seeds from the surface. They are territorial, especially during the breeding season, ...
The Raso Lark boasts one of the most restricted geographic ranges of any avian species, being entirely endemic to the tiny, uninhabited Raso Islet within the Cape Verde archipelago, off the coast of West Africa. This small volcanic island, approximately 7 km² (2.7 sq mi) in size, serves as both i...
Critically Endangered
- The Raso Lark holds the unenviable title of being one of the most geographically restricted bird species globally, found solely on the 7 km² Raso Islet. - Its entire global population is estimated to fluctuate between only 100-300 individuals, making every bird crucial for the species' survival...