Greater short-toed lark

The greater short-toed lark is a small bird with a fascinating background. Its scientific name is derived from Ancient Greek. These birds breed in southern Europe, northwest Africa, and across the Palearctic region. During migration, they gather in large flocks that move in synchrony. First described by Johann Leisler in 1814, this bird is now classified under the genus Calandrella. There are eight recognized subspecies, each inhabiting distinct areas.

In comparison to the skylark, the greater short-toed lark is smaller. It has a greyish-brown upper body with dark streaks and white underparts. Its bill is strong and pointed, and it features a pale stripe above its eyes, known as a supercilium. This bird is paler than the Mongolian short-toed lark and belongs to a broader group. Its song varies from a dry twittering sound to a more complex melody. At night, they rest on open ground, each bird settling into a small depression.

Most of these larks migrate, spending their winters in Africa and India. They are commonly found in dry, open areas and farmland, where they nest on the ground and feed on seeds and insects. In colonial India, they were hunted for food. Today, large winter flocks pose a risk for bird strikes near airports in South Asia.