The sentinel lark is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae found in Kenya and Tanzania. It was formerly treated as a subspecies of the rufous-naped lark.
Region
East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in Kenya and northern Tanzania, primarily in open savanna, short-grass plains, and lightly grazed rangelands. It also uses fallow fields and airstrips with sparse ground cover. Termite mounds and scattered shrubs serve as perches for display and vigilance. During the dry season it may concentrate where seed resources remain and where recent burns create open foraging.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A localized East African lark, it favors open grasslands and agricultural edges in Kenya and Tanzania. The species was formerly treated within the rufous-naped lark complex but is now recognized as distinct. Males often sing from prominent lookouts like termite mounds or fence posts, living up to the name “sentinel.” Identification can be challenging among similar bushlarks, so voice and habitat are helpful clues.
Temperament
wary and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; low undulating flights
Social Behavior
Typically in pairs or small family groups outside the breeding season. Nests are placed on the ground in concealed cups of grass. Males perform song flights or sing from elevated perches such as termite mounds.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied series of whistles and trills, often delivered from a perch or during a short display flight. Calls include dry chips and soft twitters used to keep contact in low vegetation.
Plumage
Streaked brown upperparts with a scaly look, paler underparts with fine breast streaking, and a slightly rufous tone on the nape and wing panel.
Diet
Takes grass seeds and a variety of invertebrates, including ants, beetles, and termites. During wetter periods it increases insect intake, especially for nestlings. Seeds and small shoots are important in drier months.
Preferred Environment
Forages on bare ground and among short grasses, frequently near recently burned patches or grazed areas. Often seen walking and probing at the base of tussocks or around termite mounds.
