From Opus

Carpospiza brachydactyla

Photo by Albzm7
Location: East of Al Khaznah, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Also known as: Pale Rock Sparrow

[edit] Identification

5.3–5.7 in (13.5–14.5 cm); 1.0–1.4 oz (28–40 g). Generally rather featureless pale brown bird with a short, stout bill. Long, triangular-shaped wings recall lark in flight. Sexes are similar, but juvenile paler, more sandy-colored.

[edit] Distribution

N Israel, Lebanon, SE Turkey, Armenia and parts of the Arabian Peninsula. During the migration period, it may also occur in other parts of the Middle-east; winter to northern Africa.

[edit] Taxonomy

Was originally described as Petronia brachydactyla Bonaparte, 1850, Kunfuda, western Arabia (now Carpospiza brachydactyla). From its behavior and form of nest, this species has been considered to be a cardueline finch, but the horny palate and digestive tract confirm it belongs to Passeridae.

This is a monotypic species.

[edit] Habitat

Sparsely vegetated regions up to 9,850 ft (3,000 m).

[edit] Behaviour

Spends much of the time on the ground, forming flocks of up to several hundreds outside the breeding season that collect near water or fields of ripening grain. Diet includeds seeds of grasses, including cultivated cereals, but takes some insects during breeding season. Nestlings are mainly reared on insects. Nest is open, untidy cup of twigs lined with softer material in bush or tree close to ground. Clutch is 4-5 eggs, incubation 13–14 days, fledging 11–16 days. Incubation by female only, but both sexes feed the young.

[edit] External Links