The eastern long-billed lark, also known as the Kaffrarian long-billed lark or Eastern longbill is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae. It is found in south-eastern Africa. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical dry lowland grassland.
Region
Southeast Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Eastern Cape through KwaZulu-Natal into adjacent highland and coastal grasslands, with possible occurrences in Lesotho and Eswatini. Prefers open, dry lowland to foothill grasslands with scattered shrubs and bare patches. Often uses overgrazed pastures, recently burned fields, road verges, and lightly cultivated areas with short swards. It avoids dense, tall grass or closed woodland. Territories are typically small and centered on suitable foraging patches.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This long-billed lark is adapted to short, open grasslands where grazing or recent fires keep vegetation low. Its notably long, slightly decurved bill helps it probe soil and leaf litter for insects and seeds. It often performs brief song-flights and also sings from fence posts or termite mounds. Populations are patchy but the species is generally considered secure within its range.
Upperparts of C. s. algida in worn plumage
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, holding small territories. Nests on the ground in a shallow cup hidden at the base of grass tufts. Likely monogamous; both adults help feed the young. Displays include brief song-flights and bill-up postures from low perches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, tinkling series of whistles and trills, often delivered from a low perch or during a short song-flight. Calls include dry chups and rattling notes used in contact and alarm. The song blends well with ambient grassland sounds, making the bird easier to hear than to see.
Plumage
Upperparts are sandy to rufous-brown with dark streaking; underparts buffy with fine breast streaks. Feathers are fairly plain-textured, offering good camouflage in dry grass. Tail is brown with paler edges and often white on the outer feathers.
Diet
Feeds on a mix of grass seeds and small invertebrates, including beetles, ants, termites, and caterpillars. Insects make up a higher proportion during the breeding season. It probes soil, lifts litter, and picks prey from bare ground. Opportunistically takes seeds from weedy forbs and spilled grain near fields or tracks.
Preferred Environment
Forages on short, open ground with scattered bare patches, including grazed pasture, recently burned grassland, and field margins. Frequently uses paths, road verges, and termite mounds where prey is accessible.
