Friedmann's lark is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae found in East Africa.
Region
East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in semi-arid to arid savannas and open grasslands with scattered shrubs and patches of bare ground. It favors short, sparse grasses in Acacia–Commiphora bushland and lightly grazed plains. Presence can be erratic and associated with recent rainfall that triggers territorial singing and breeding activity. Nests are placed on the ground, usually concealed at the base of a tuft of grass. The species is typically encountered in very localized pockets within suitable habitat.
Altitude Range
200–1600 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Friedmann's lark is a scarce and elusive East African lark that is often detected by its display songs rather than seen on the ground. It tends to appear after rains and can be highly localized, making it a sought-after species for birders. Like many arid-zone larks, it performs aerial song displays at dawn and dusk and nests on the ground in shallow grass-lined scrapes.
Temperament
wary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; aerial song-flights during display
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs during the breeding period, becoming loosely associated in small groups when conditions are favorable. Ground nester with a shallow grass-lined cup hidden at the base of vegetation. Displays include ascending song-flights followed by parachuting descents into cover.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a thin, tinkling series of notes delivered from a perch or during a fluttering display flight, often at dawn or dusk. Calls are soft and understated, aiding its inconspicuous nature. Singing activity often increases following rainfall.
Plumage
Sandy to buff-brown upperparts with fine dark streaking; paler, buff underparts with light breast mottling. Feathers are subtly patterned to blend with dry grass and bare soil.
Diet
Takes small seeds and a variety of invertebrates, including ants, beetles, and grasshoppers. Diet shifts toward more insects after rains when prey is abundant. Forages by walking and picking from the ground, occasionally turning leaf litter or probing at the base of grasses. Opportunistic feeding helps it cope with fluctuating arid environments.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in short-grass plains, lightly grazed pasture, and open bushland with scattered shrubs. Prefers microhabitats with a mix of bare soil and sparse cover for both foraging and concealment.
