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==Taxonomy== | ==Taxonomy== | ||
There is considerable geographic variation; 23 subspecies have been recognised. | There is considerable geographic variation; 23 subspecies have been recognised. | ||
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| + | Sibley & Monroe<sup>[[#References|1]]</sup> recognised ''M. a. sharpii'' as a separate species (which they called [[Somali Lark]]). | ||
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==Habitat== | ==Habitat== | ||
The Rufous-naped Lark is found in a wide range of savanna and grassland habitats. | The Rufous-naped Lark is found in a wide range of savanna and grassland habitats. | ||
Revision as of 12:03, 13 December 2008
- Mirafra africana
Identification
A large Lark that varies geographically, but rufous wings and a short crest are consistent features.
Voice: Mainly a tree tree-leeoo whistle.
Distribution
Sub-Saharan Africa
Taxonomy
There is considerable geographic variation; 23 subspecies have been recognised.
Sibley & Monroe1 recognised M. a. sharpii as a separate species (which they called Somali Lark).
Habitat
The Rufous-naped Lark is found in a wide range of savanna and grassland habitats.
Behaviour
Solitary or in pairs. Forages on the ground, mainly for invertebrates, but also for seeds.
Breeding: Monogamous and territorial. The nest is a cup of dry grass with a partial or complete dome, built on the ground, normally against a grass tuft. Two to three eggs are laid (July 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
Sinclair I & Ryan P. 2003. Birds of Africa south of the Sahara. Princeton University Press. ISBN 0620207299
