The short-clawed lark or short-clawed bush-lark, is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae. It is found in Botswana and South Africa. Its natural habitat is dry savannah.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in central and eastern Botswana and adjacent northern South Africa, especially in the Kalahari and thornveld zones. It prefers open, dry savanna with short, sparse grasses and scattered low shrubs. Bare sandy patches, firebreaks, overgrazed pastures, and recently burnt grassland are frequently used. It avoids dense tall grass and closed woodland. Often found near termitaria and along sandy tracks where ground cover is minimal.
Altitude Range
800–1500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The short-clawed lark is named for its relatively short hind claw, a feature that helps distinguish it from similar larks. It favors sparsely vegetated, sandy areas and often benefits from recently burnt or heavily grazed grassland that creates open ground. Typically inconspicuous, it runs on the ground and flushes only at close range. Its range is localized within southern Africa, making suitable habitat patches important for its persistence.
Temperament
wary and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low undulating flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Nests on the ground in a shallow scrape lined with fine grass, typically placed under a tuft for concealment. Breeding is timed to the rainy season when food is abundant, and pairs defend small territories. Displays include short song-flights from low height or singing from a perch.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, tinkling series of notes, delivered from the ground, a low bush, or during a brief fluttering song-flight. Calls are dry chips and trills, often given as contact notes while foraging.
