The sabota lark is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae. It is found in southern Africa in its natural habitats of dry savannah, moist savannah, and subtropical or tropical dry shrubland. It is generally sedentary but local movements occur in drier regions. The species name is derived from sebotha or sebothé, the Tswana generic name for a lark.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across dry to semi-arid savannas and shrublands of Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and adjacent regions. Prefers open thornveld, acacia savanna, mopane edges, and Kalahari duneveld with scattered bushes and grass tussocks. Often found along track edges, lightly grazed areas, and recently burned patches where ground cover is patchy. Avoids dense woodland and very rocky ground but adapts well to a mosaic of open habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The sabota lark is a common lark of southern Africa’s savannas and shrublands, often performing buoyant display flights while singing. Its English name derives from the Tswana word sebota/sebothé, a generic term for larks. It shows notable regional variation across several subspecies and can be confused with similar larks, so voice and habitat are useful clues. Typically it is sedentary, but birds make local movements in response to rainfall and food availability.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; buoyant display flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, defending territories during the breeding season. Nests are shallow cups placed on the ground, often sheltered by a grass tuft or low shrub. Breeding is linked to rainfall; both parents typically feed the chicks. Outside breeding, loose associations may form in productive areas.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied, melodious series of trills, whistles, and chirps delivered from a perch or during an aerial display. Song-flights are conspicuous, with the male rising and descending while singing. Calls include sharp chips and softer contact notes.
