The pink-billed lark is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae found in southern Africa. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical dry lowland grassland. It is described as having a low breeding success rate.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in dry lowland grasslands and open arid savannas with short, sparse grass and patches of bare soil. It favors overgrazed pastures, fallow fields, and sandy plains and avoids densely vegetated or tall grass areas. Often found near ephemeral pans and along road verges where seeds and insects concentrate. Nests are placed on the ground in open flats with minimal cover.
Altitude Range
200–1600 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The pink-billed lark is a small, ground-dwelling lark of southern Africa named for its distinctive pale pink, conical bill. It nests in a shallow scrape on the ground, often tucked against a grass tuft for concealment. Breeding success can be low in dry years, reflecting its arid grassland habitat and rainfall-driven food availability.
Temperament
wary and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season, forming small loose flocks outside it. Nests are shallow ground scrapes lined with fine grasses, and the species relies on camouflage for defense. Displays may include brief song flights and bill-raising postures.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft series of tinkling notes and short trills, delivered from the ground or during brief fluttering song flights. Calls include thin chips and dry rattles used to keep contact in sparse cover.
Plumage
Sandy-brown upperparts finely streaked, with paler buff underparts and light streaking across the breast. Feathers are short and tight to the body, giving a neat, compact look.
Diet
Feeds primarily on grass and forb seeds, supplemented by small insects such as termites, beetles, and ants, especially during breeding. Forages by pecking and gleaning from the ground and from low plants. After rains, it increases its intake of arthropods when they are abundant.
Preferred Environment
Open, short-grass areas with bare patches, including overgrazed rangeland, fallow fields, and sandy flats. Often forages along track edges and near sparse shrubs where seeds accumulate.
