The rufous-tailed lark, also sometimes called the rufous-tailed finch-lark, is a ground bird found in the drier open stony habitats of India and parts of Pakistan. Like other species in the genus it has a large finch-like bill with a slightly curved edge to the upper mandible. The dull brown colour matches the soil as it forages for grass seeds, grain and insects. Males and females are indistinguishable in the field but during the breeding season, the male has a courtship display that involves flying up steeply and then nose-diving and pulling up in a series of stepped wavy dips accompanied by calling. They forage on the ground in pairs or small groups.
Region
South Asia
Typical Environment
Found widely across peninsular India and locally into parts of Pakistan in dry, open landscapes. Prefers stony plains, rocky outcrops, sparsely vegetated scrub, and fallow or lightly grazed farmland. Often uses road verges and field edges where bare ground is abundant. Breeding occurs on the ground in simple scrapes placed among stones or sparse grasses.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A ground-dwelling lark of semi-arid country, it blends in with stony soils thanks to its sandy-brown plumage and warm rufous tail. Males perform a striking display flight, climbing steeply before diving and pulling up in a series of wavy dips while singing. Pairs or small groups forage unobtrusively on open ground, especially in fallow fields and rocky plains. Its sturdy, finch-like bill handles both seeds and insects.
Temperament
mostly terrestrial and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; males perform steep climbing and diving display flights
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly, in pairs, or in small groups outside the breeding season. Nests are shallow scrapes on the ground, often partially sheltered by a stone or tuft of grass. The male courts with aerial song-flights and brief chases; both sexes remain close to foraging areas.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A sweet, melodious series of whistles and trills delivered from the ground or during display flight. In aerial display the song is repeated in phrases synchronized with the bird’s stepped dives and pull-ups.
