Bar-tailed lark

The bar-tailed lark, also known as the bar-tailed desert lark, is a bird species belonging to the Alaudidae family. Its range extends from Morocco to Pakistan, predominantly inhabiting hot desert regions. Although fairly common in many areas, its population is gradually declining in certain parts. Nevertheless, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies it as a species of "least concern" due to the absence of significant threats.

Initially, this bird was categorized under the genus Melanocorypha. It is also referred to by several other names, including bar-tailed finch-lark, black-tailed desert lark, black-tailed lark, and black-tailed sand lark. There are three recognized subspecies, each residing in distinct regions.

In terms of appearance, the bar-tailed lark closely resembles the desert lark but is slightly smaller. Differences include variations in head shape, beak size, leg thickness, and tail length. Its plumage is sandy-buff on the upper parts and whitish underneath, with reddish wings and a tail marked by a black band.

The bar-tailed lark's habitat spans across North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, the Middle East, and parts of western Asia, including Afghanistan, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen. It favors sandy or stony deserts with sparse vegetation. Unlike the desert lark, the bar-tailed lark is more elusive and generally prefers flat terrains over rocky slopes and hillsides.