Gillett's lark or Gillett's bushlark is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae found in eastern Africa.
Region
Horn of Africa and East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in Ethiopia, Somalia, and northern Kenya, mainly in arid and semi-arid lowlands. It favors open scrub and bushy grasslands, Acacia–Commiphora bushland, stony plains, and sandy flats with patches of bare ground. The species tolerates lightly grazed or degraded habitats and often forages along tracks and around termite mounds. It is typically patchy in occurrence but can be locally common where suitable cover and open ground intermix.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Gillett's lark is a ground-dwelling lark of arid East Africa, often seen running between tufts of grass and making short, low flights. Males perform animated song-flights, delivering a bright, tinkling series of notes, especially after rains. It was formerly confused with the Degodi Lark, which is now often treated as a separate species. Its cryptic sandy plumage provides excellent camouflage against stony and sandy plains.
Temperament
wary and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights; males perform ascending display flights
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, sometimes in small loose groups where habitat is suitable. Nests on the ground, a shallow cup concealed under grass or low shrubs. Likely monogamous with territorial song-flights by the male during breeding. Activity and vocal display often increase following seasonal rains.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright, tinkling series of trills and whistles, delivered from a perch or during buoyant display flights. Calls include soft chits and buzzes used during foraging and contact.
Plumage
Sandy to rufous-brown upperparts with dark streaking, paler buff underparts with fine breast streaks, and a contrasting rufous wing panel visible in flight. Tail is brown with whitish outer feathers; overall plumage is cryptic and well-matched to arid ground.
Diet
Feeds on small insects such as beetles, ants, termites, and caterpillars, supplemented by seeds and small plant material. Insects dominate during the breeding season and after rains when prey is abundant. It gleans from the ground, picks items from low vegetation, and may probe lightly in soft soil.
Preferred Environment
Forages on open, sparsely vegetated ground, including stony flats, short-grass areas, and the edges of bushland. Frequently uses paths, overgrazed patches, and areas around termite mounds where prey is accessible.
