The Obbia lark is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae. It is found in central Somalia, where it is endemic. Its natural habitat is sub-tropical or tropical dry shrubland.
Region
Horn of Africa
Typical Environment
This species is restricted to central coastal Somalia, especially the Hobyo–El Dher belt of arid shrubland and sandy grassland. It favors open, sparsely vegetated flats, coastal dune systems, and semi-desert with scattered shrubs and short grasses. Patches of bare ground are important for ground foraging and dust-bathing. It tends to avoid dense bush and cultivated areas, persisting where grazing and wind maintain low vegetation structure.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Obbia lark is a little-known Somali endemic confined to the dry shrublands around Hobyo (historically Obbia). It is adapted to sandy, sparsely vegetated habitats where it forages largely on the ground. Very limited fieldwork in its range means ecology and population size remain poorly documented. It is often detected by its subtle, tinkling lark-like song given from low display flights or perches.
Temperament
wary and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly, in pairs, or small loose groups, often keeping low and running rather than flying. Likely monogamous with ground nests concealed under small shrubs or grass tufts. Breeding is presumed to track rainfall pulses, as in many arid-zone larks, with opportunistic timing after good rains.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, tinkling series of chirps and trills, delivered from the ground, a low perch, or during brief fluttering display flights. Calls are thin and high-pitched, aiding contact in sparse habitats. Vocalizations can be easily overlooked in windy coastal conditions.
Plumage
Sandy-brown upperparts with fine, darker streaking and pale fringes giving a slightly scaly look; underparts are whitish to buff with faint breast streaks. The crown and nape are warm buff, contrasting subtly with the mantle. The tail is brown with paler edges and slightly darker center. Overall appearance is pale and well-camouflaged against sand and dry scrub.
Diet
Feeds on small seeds from grasses and forbs, complemented by insects such as ants, beetles, termites, and larvae, especially after rains. Gleans and pecks from the ground surface, occasionally probing loose sand or leaf litter. Diet likely shifts seasonally, with higher insect intake during wet periods when invertebrates are abundant.
Preferred Environment
Forages on open sandy flats, dune edges, and among sparse shrubs where visibility is good and ground cover is low. Often uses bare patches and vehicle tracks for easy access to seeds and invertebrates.
