Beesley's lark

Beesley's lark is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae. It was formerly considered to be a subspecies of the spike-heeled lark. Clements lumps this bird into the spike-heeled lark.

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Distribution

Region

East Africa

Typical Environment

The species is confined to semi-arid short-grass and bare earth plains on the Maasai Steppe north of Mount Meru. It favors open, sparsely vegetated volcanic ash flats with scattered low forbs and stones. Bare tracks and lightly grazed patches are commonly used for foraging. During wetter periods it may range slightly more widely within the same open habitats.

Altitude Range

900–1500 m

Climate Zone

Arid

Characteristics

Size15–17 cm

Wing Span25–30 cm

Male Weight0.035 kg

Female Weight0.032 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Beesley's lark is a highly localized East African lark, often treated as a distinct species by some authorities but lumped with the spike-heeled lark by others. It inhabits sparse, semi-arid short-grass plains and is notoriously hard to find, spending much time on the ground and relying on camouflage. Its extremely small range makes it vulnerable to habitat degradation from overgrazing and land-use change.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and wary

Flight Pattern

low, direct flights with short rapid wingbeats; often drops quickly to ground

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family parties. Nests on the ground in a shallow cup concealed at the base of grass tufts. Likely monogamous in the breeding season and strongly site-faithful within its tiny range.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song is a soft, tinkling series of trills and short phrases, often delivered from the ground or a low display flight. Calls include thin tseep notes and dry chatters when flushed.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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