Melanocorypha maxima
The Tibetan Lark (Melanocorypha maxima) stands as the largest species within the Alaudidae family, a majestic inhabitant of the vast, arid steppes and alpine meadows of the Tibetan Plateau. Measuring an impressive 20-23 cm (8-9 inches) in length with a wingspan of 38-42 cm and weighing between 75-90 grams, it is notably larger than most larks. Its plumage is cryptically colored to blend with its stony, high-altitude environment, featuring streaky brown upperparts, a pale, unstreaked belly, an...
This lark primarily inhabits high-altitude arid grasslands, alpine steppes, and stony plateaus, typically found between 3,000 and 5,000 meters (9,800 to 16,400 feet) above sea level. It prefers open, treeless areas with sparse vegetation for foraging and nesting.
Their diet consists mainly of insects and their larvae, especially during the breeding season, supplemented by seeds and plant matter found on the ground throughout the year. They primarily forage by walking or running and gleaning food from the ground.
Tibetan Larks are diurnal, spending their days foraging actively on the ground, often in a characteristic stooping posture. They are primarily ground gleaners, walking or running short distances to pick up food items. During the breeding season, males engage in spectacular song flights, soaring h...
The Tibetan Lark is endemic to the high-altitude regions of Central Asia, primarily the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding mountain ranges. Its breeding range encompasses western and central China (including Tibet, Qinghai, Gansu, Sichuan, and eastern Xinjiang), northern India (Ladakh, Sikkim), Nepa...
Least Concern
- The Tibetan Lark is the largest species of lark in the world, often described as a 'giant among larks'. - It routinely lives and breeds at altitudes exceeding 4,500 meters (14,760 feet), making it one of the highest-dwelling passerine birds globally. - Its scientific name, *maxima*, directly tr...