The Asian short-toed lark is a lark in the family Alaudidae. The species was first described by Robert Swinhoe in 1871. It is found from south-central to eastern Asia.
Region
Central and East Asia
Typical Environment
Occupies open steppe, semi-desert plains, and dry agricultural fields, especially areas with short grass and patches of bare ground. It favors sparsely vegetated terrain where it can run and forage on the ground, and uses stubble fields and fallow plots after harvest. In winter it moves to milder lowlands and cultivated areas, often mixing with other small larks. Ground cover that is too tall or dense is generally avoided.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Continental
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small, cryptic lark of open steppes and farmlands, the Asian short-toed lark was first described by Robert Swinhoe in 1871. Its name refers to the relatively short hind claw compared to many other larks. It often sings from low display flights and forms loose flocks outside the breeding season.
Temperament
wary and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights; fluttering display flights when singing
Social Behavior
Breeds on the ground, usually as dispersed pairs on open steppe. The nest is a small cup tucked in a grass tuft or shallow scrape; clutch size is typically 3–5 eggs. Outside the breeding season it gathers in small to medium flocks, sometimes with other lark species.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A light, tinkling series of trills and chirrs, often delivered during a brief fluttering display flight. Calls are soft chips and twittering notes used to keep contact within flocks.
Plumage
Sandy-brown upperparts with dark streaking creating a scaly effect; pale buff to whitish underparts with fine breast streaks. The tail is short and slightly notched; overall appearance is plain and well-camouflaged. Lacks a prominent crest.
Diet
Feeds mainly on grass and weed seeds, supplemented by small invertebrates such as beetles, ants, and caterpillars, especially during the breeding season. It forages by walking and picking items from the ground. Diet shifts toward more seeds outside the breeding season.
Preferred Environment
Forages on short-grass steppe, fallow fields, stubble, and sparsely vegetated plains with ample bare ground. It also uses field margins and tracks where seeds and insects are easy to pick.
