The white-winged lark is a species of lark found from southern Ukraine through Kazakhstan to south-central Russia. It is partially migratory, with birds tending to move south in winter. The southernmost birds are mainly resident. It is a very rare vagrant to western Europe.
Region
Eurasian Steppe
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Ukraine across southwestern Russia and Kazakhstan into adjacent parts of south-central Russia. Prefers open, treeless steppe with sparse to moderate grass cover, fallow fields, and lightly grazed pastures. Often uses agricultural mosaics, especially cereal stubbles in non-breeding seasons. In winter it moves southward within the steppe belt where snow cover is lighter.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-winged lark is a steppe specialist best identified by its striking white wing panels visible even at long range. Males perform buoyant song-flights during the breeding season. Outside breeding, it forms flocks that roam open grasslands and stubble fields. It is a scarce vagrant to western Europe.
Alauda leucoptera – MHNT
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
buoyant song-flights and strong, direct level flight over open steppe
Social Behavior
Breeds on the ground in open steppe, placing a cup nest in a shallow scrape concealed by vegetation. Typically monogamous, with the male displaying and singing in flight to defend territory. Outside the breeding season it gathers in small to medium-sized flocks that move widely in search of food.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A varied, melodious series of trills, whistles, and rolling notes, sometimes with snippets of mimicry. Delivered both from perches on the ground and during fluttering song-flights high over the steppe.
Plumage
Upperparts sandy-brown with fine dark streaking; underparts pale buff to whitish with lighter streaking on the breast. In flight shows bold white wing panels contrasting with darker flight feathers and pale outer tail feathers.
Diet
Feeds on seeds of grasses and forbs, cereal grains, and green plant material outside the breeding season. During breeding, it takes more animal prey including beetles, grasshoppers, ants, and larvae to meet higher protein needs. Forages by walking and picking items from the ground or low vegetation.
Preferred Environment
Open steppe, grazed pastures, and agricultural stubbles where vegetation is short and patchy. Often uses field edges and tracks that create bare ground for foraging.
