- Mirafra rufocinnamomea
Identification
Length 14-15 cm, mass 21-32 g.
Similar to the Rufous-naped Lark, but smaller and darker with rufous-edged wings. Tail is distinctive and a key identification feature, being narrow, often appearing untidy, and having dark brown central rectrices and rufous outer ones. Display flight is distinctive if witnessed - two to five bursts of wing-clapping (prrrrt prrrt-rrrt), sometimes followed by a thin, barely audible whistle, delivered as the bird circles in an undulating flight.
Variation
Some subspecies are very dark above
Distribution
Sub-Saharan Africa.
Taxonomy
Considerable geographic variation; 15 subspecies have been described.
Habitat
Grasslands and grassy openings in woodlands and savanna.
Behaviour
Usually solitary or in pairs. Forages on the ground for invertebrates and seeds.
Breeding: Monogamous and territorial. The nest is a domed or partly domed structure built of grass on the ground. Two to three eggs are laid (October to April in southern Africa).
References
- Hockey PAR, Dean WRJ & Ryan PG (eds) 2005. Robert's Birds of Southern Africa, 7th edition. John Voelcker Bird Book Fund, Cape Town, South Africa. ISBN 0620340533
- Birdforum thread showing one of the dark forms of Flappet Lark
