Rufous-naped Lark

Mirafra africana

Grassland with bush. Eastern race with rufous crest and wings; body washed rufous; pale western race with rufous on wings only.

Not Endemic

Description

Common resident. Distinguished by rather long, strong, slightly decurved bill, rufous crown and rufous wing-feather edges (common to all larks in the genus Mirafra). Typically with much rufous coloration above and below (a) or, in paler western birds (b), with white underparts faintly tinged buff and pale-edged feathers on the upper parts. Male has an erectile crest, which is raised when singing; at other times crest not visible and then easily confused with other larks and pipits. The call is a melancholy ‘tseep-tseeooo’ repeated at about eight-second intervals. Also sings during aerial cruises, especially at dusk, when it imitates other birds. Usually occurs singly in open grassland, the male perching conspicuously on anthills, low bushes or posts when calling, frequently shuffling the wings and raising the crest.

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.