Dusky Lark

Pinarocorys nigricans

Broad-leaved woodland whiel foraging on the floor. Dark bold face and breast

Larks

Not Endemic

Description

Uncommon, non-breeding summer visitor. Dark coloration and bold markings of face and breast resemble Groundscraper Thrush, but upper parts darker, bill more robust and legs white. Like that species, flicks wings open while walking around. No distinctive call. Occurs in scattered flocks in low-altitude bushveld and broad-leaved woodland, foraging in open patches and occasionally perching in trees. Flies with sharply dipping flight.

Quick Facts

Bird Family

Small, sombrely coloured terrestrial birds with confusingly similar, nondescript plumage patterns consisting of greyish speckled upperparts and pale underparts, usually with some streaking or spotting on the breast. Many species show regional plumage variations, palest or greyest in the north or west. Immature birds resemble adults but are generally more speckled. They are best identified by the male's call as well as behaviour and habitat. Most species tend to run rather than fly away when approached; males of many species have prolonged aerial display flights.