Crested Lark.
Galerida cristata.
The best- known lark of West Africa, and very typical of its family.
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Crested Lark. Galerida cristata. The best- known lark of West Africa, and very typical of its family. |
| Recognition: Small medium. Sandy-brown above and with a prominent crest to the head, the feathers curving upwards. Nearly white underparts with dark streaks on the breast. |
| Distribution: Different races occur throughout the drier parts of West Africa. |
| Habits: Solitary or in pairs, frequenting open ground such as gardens, farms and roadsides. Tame enough to permit a close approach. Feed on a variety of insects and small seeds. Unlike some other larks they seldom soar, and sing mainly on the ground. Breeding occurs in the dry season, the nest being placed on the ground in a grass tussock. |
| Call: A pleasant "trilling" song, particularly in the breeding season. |
