The masked lark is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae. It is found in Ethiopia and Kenya. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry shrubland and subtropical or tropical dry lowland grassland.
Region
East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in southern Ethiopia and northern Kenya, favoring open, sparsely vegetated dry shrubland and lowland grassland. Typical sites include semi-desert plains with scattered acacia, stony flats, and lightly grazed steppe. It prefers areas with low grass cover and bare ground for foraging. After rains it may expand locally where short green growth attracts insects. The species is generally local but can be common in suitable habitat.
Altitude Range
500–1800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named for its dark facial mask, this lark blends remarkably well with the sandy, stony ground it inhabits. It often goes unnoticed until it makes a short, fluttering song flight. The species can be confused with other small, brown larks; the face mask and contrasting pale supercilium are key cues. It forages on the ground and benefits from recent rains that boost insect availability.
Temperament
wary and cryptic
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season, forming small loose groups at other times. Nests on the ground in a shallow cup hidden among sparse grasses or low shrubs. Likely monogamous with discreet display flights and ground-based courtship. Relies on camouflage and stillness to avoid predators.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, twittering series of trills and tinkling notes, often delivered during a brief song flight. Calls are thin and high, used to keep contact while foraging in low vegetation.
