Crested Lark

Galerida cristata

Genus · Crested Larks Family · Larks
Observation tips Difficulty: EASY
Best time
🕒 Any
Activity
☀️ Diurnal
Best months
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Observation habitat
Scrub wastelandUrban

Look for a lark with a prominent 'spike' on its head. They are common in Mediterranean countries and industrial zones.

Crested Lark
Stats
Wingspan29–38 cm
Weight37–55 g
Length17–19 cm
Lifespan wild3–12 yrs
Size
XS
S
M
L
XL
Nesting
Nest typeScrape
Clutch size3–5 eggs
Incubation11–13 days
Breeding months
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Regional Status (Europe)
LC
Least Concern (Europe)
IUCN Red List
MigrationResident
Social BehaviourMonogamous pairs

Diet: Omnivore

🦗Insects
🐛Larvae
🌻Seeds

Habitat

🚜 Farmland🏜️ Scrub wasteland🏙️ Urban
✦ Fun Fact

Crested Larks often continue singing even during the hottest parts of the day, unlike many other small birds.

About

A stocky, streaked brown bird of dry landscapes. It is recognized by a long, pointed crest on its head. This lark is often found in urban and industrial areas like railway sidings and car parks. It is a resident in Central and Southern Europe. It thrives in dusty environments where other birds struggle.

Behaviour

This lark is a ground-dweller and rarely perches in trees. It often runs along the ground with a hunched posture. Its song is a liquid warble usually delivered from the ground. They are remarkably tame birds. They use their long, curved bills to probe the soil for seeds and insects.
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