Mirafra javanica
The Singing Bush Lark (*Mirafra javanica*) is a small, widespread passerine bird belonging to the Alaudidae family, typically measuring 13-15 cm in length and weighing between 19-30 grams. Its plumage is generally brownish with distinctive dark streaking on the upperparts, contrasting with paler, whitish underparts that often feature fine streaking on the breast. Key identification marks include a short, blunt crest that can be erected, a pale supercilium, and a conspicuous rufous patch on th...
Found primarily in open country, including grasslands, savannas, pastures, agricultural fields, and heathlands, typically at low to moderate elevations.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on grasshoppers, crickets, beetles, ants, and caterpillars, supplemented with a significant proportion of seeds, especially during drier periods.
Diurnal in nature, the Singing Bush Lark spends most of its time on the ground, foraging actively. Males are famous for their elaborate territorial displays, which involve ascending high into the sky, hovering or circling, and then parachuting down while delivering a continuous, complex song. The...
The Singing Bush Lark boasts an exceptionally wide geographic distribution, stretching from the Indian subcontinent across Southeast Asia, including Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Its range extends eastward through New Guinea and covers much ...
Least Concern
- The Singing Bush Lark is a renowned vocal mimic, often incorporating phrases from dozens of other bird species into its complex songs. - Its aerial song display can last for several minutes, with the bird ascending hundreds of feet before parachuting back down. - Despite its name, its habitat p...