The crested lark is a species of lark widespread across Eurasia and northern Africa. It is a non-migratory bird, but can occasionally be found as a vagrant in Great Britain.
Region
Eurasia and North Africa
Typical Environment
Found from the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa across the Mediterranean basin, the Middle East, and through temperate Asia to western India and Central Asia. It favors open, dry habitats such as steppe, semi-desert, sparsely vegetated fields, fallow farmland, dunes, and roadsides. It typically avoids dense woodland and high alpine zones, preferring areas with bare ground or short vegetation for foraging. Frequently occurs near villages, industrial lots, and railways where disturbed ground provides feeding opportunities.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The crested lark is easily recognized by its prominent pointed crest, which it raises when alarmed or displaying. Unlike the skylark, it usually sings from a perch such as a rock, post, or low shrub. It tolerates human-altered landscapes and is often seen along roadsides, fields, and vacant lots. It has numerous subspecies adapted to local soils and vegetation across its wide range.
Eggs of Galerida cristata - MHNT
Temperament
wary but often approachable in open areas
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season, holding ground territories and nesting in shallow scrapes lined with plant material. Outside the breeding period it may gather in small loose flocks, especially where food is abundant. Both sexes participate in territory defense; the nest is well concealed among clumps of vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, varied warble of fluty notes, trills, and mimicry delivered from a perch or during a short song flight. Phrases are repeated and often run together in an unhurried, melodious sequence.
Plumage
Sandy to grey-brown upperparts heavily streaked, with paler, lightly streaked underparts and a diffuse breast band. Feathers are cryptic and finely patterned, aiding camouflage on bare ground. The crown feathers form a distinct pointed crest that can be raised or flattened.
Diet
Feeds mainly on seeds and grains from grasses and weeds, supplemented by small invertebrates such as beetles, ants, and caterpillars, especially in the breeding season. Juveniles receive a higher proportion of animal protein to support growth. It also takes fallen cereal grains in agricultural areas and may probe or glean among clods and stones.
Preferred Environment
Forages on bare or sparsely vegetated ground in open country, including field margins, stubble, wasteland, and semi-desert flats. Often feeds along tracks, road verges, and around human settlements where disturbed soil exposes food.
