The Somali short-toed lark is a small passerine bird of the lark family found in eastern and north-eastern Africa.
Region
Horn of Africa
Typical Environment
Found primarily in Somalia and adjacent parts of eastern Ethiopia (including the Ogaden) and Djibouti. It inhabits open semi-desert, stony or sandy plains, and sparsely vegetated grasslands with patches of bare ground. The species tolerates scattered acacia scrub and fallow fields but avoids dense cover. Local movements track rainfall and seeding grasses.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the Somali lark, this small passerine favors open, semi-arid plains with sparse vegetation. It was formerly placed in the genus Calandrella and is now generally treated as Alaudala. Breeding is often linked to seasonal rains, and birds may wander locally to track recent rainfall. Its subtle plumage makes it well-camouflaged against sandy soils.
Temperament
wary and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights
Social Behavior
Often seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season, forming small loose flocks at other times. Nests on the ground, typically a small cup hidden among tufts of grass or low vegetation. Likely monogamous with breeding timed to follow rains when food is most abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, tinkling trills and twittering phrases delivered from the ground or low song-flights. Calls are dry and lark-like, including short chirps and rattles used for contact and alarm.
Plumage
Sandy to pale brown upperparts with fine, diffuse streaking and pale, unmarked underparts with faint breast mottling. Feathers have subtle buff edging that blends with dry ground. Tail short with pale edges; overall appearance is plain and sandy.
Diet
Feeds on small seeds of grasses and herbs, supplemented by insects such as ants, beetles, termites, and other invertebrates, especially during the breeding season. Forages by walking and picking items from the ground. After rains it exploits fresh seed fall and emergent insect swarms.
Preferred Environment
Open, sparsely vegetated ground with ample bare patches for ground foraging. Often along stony flats, lightly grazed steppe, and edges of acacia scrub.
