Gray's lark is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae. It is found in south-western Africa in its natural habitat of hot deserts.
Region
Southwestern Africa
Typical Environment
Gray's lark inhabits the hyper-arid plains and dune margins of the Namib and adjacent deserts in Namibia, southwest Angola, and the far northwest of South Africa. It favors open, sparsely vegetated gravel flats with scattered shrubs and grass tussocks. It also uses sandy inter-dune corridors and coastal desert plains near fog zones. The species avoids dense vegetation and prefers wide, unobstructed vistas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Gray's lark is among the palest of the larks, blending perfectly with the Namib’s gravel plains and dunes. It is superbly adapted to heat and aridity, often obtaining much of its moisture from prey. The species usually runs swiftly across open ground, taking short low flights when disturbed. Breeding is closely tied to sporadic desert rains.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
low, bounding flight with short rapid wingbeats; brief display flights
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, sometimes small family groups after breeding. Nests are shallow ground cups placed in slight hollows, often shaded by a stone or small shrub. Pairs are monogamous during the season, and breeding is triggered by rainfall events.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, tinkling series of notes and trills, often delivered from the ground or a low perch. Males may give a short, fluttering display flight with quiet phrases. Calls include thin chips and soft contact notes.
