The Somali lark is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae endemic to Somalia. Ash's lark is now considered to be a subspecies.
Region
Horn of Africa
Typical Environment
Found in arid and semi-arid plains with sparse grasses, scattered acacias, and thorn scrub. It favors open, stony or sandy ground with patches of bare soil for foraging and display. Recently grazed or burned areas with short vegetation are frequently used. Occurs locally from low coastal plains inland to plateau country where cover remains low and open.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Somali lark is a ground-dwelling lark endemic to Somalia’s dry plains and thorn scrub. It performs an aerial song display, fluttering up and hovering while delivering a rolling series of trills. Ash’s lark is often treated as a subspecies of the Somali lark under some taxonomies. Habitat change from overgrazing and shrub encroachment can affect local densities, but the species persists across suitable arid habitats.
Temperament
wary and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights; fluttering song-flights
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly, in pairs, or small family parties. Nests on the ground, often a grass-lined cup concealed at the base of a tussock or shrub. Displays include song-flights and wing-flicking from low perches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright series of trills, tinkling phrases, and chirrs delivered from a low perch or during hovering display flight. Song is most frequent at dawn and after rains when insects are abundant.
Plumage
Sandy to rufous-brown upperparts with dark streaking; paler, lightly streaked breast and buffy flanks; off-white belly. Feathers appear dry and sandy, blending well with arid ground.
Diet
Feeds primarily on grass and forb seeds supplemented by insects such as beetles, ants, termites, and small caterpillars, especially in the breeding season. Forages by walking and picking from the ground, occasionally scratching lightly. Takes advantage of flushes of termites or other emergent insects after rainfall.
Preferred Environment
Open ground with sparse grass cover, track edges, and lightly grazed or recently burned patches. Often forages near low bushes that provide quick cover from predators.
