Thekla's Lark
Least ConcernGalerida theklae
Visual Identification
Thekla's Lark
Appearance
Thekla's Lark is a small, compact bird with brown-grey plumage streaked with darker markings. It has a distinctive spiky crest on its head, a stout bill, and a relatively short tail. The underparts are pale, and the breast is streaked. The eyes are black, and the legs pink.
Both sexes look similar, with juveniles appearing slightly paler and more heavily streaked than adults. The bird's plumage remains consistent throughout the year, with no seasonal variations.
Size
Length
15cm to 17cm
Wingspan
28cm to 32cm
Weight
28g to 45g
Colours
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Brown Grey
Secondary Colour
White Buff
Beak Colour
Grey
Leg Colour
Pink
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
Thekla's Lark inhabits dry, open areas with sparse vegetation, including rocky hillsides, mountain slopes, and semi-arid plains. It is found across parts of southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
The species is primarily resident, maintaining its distribution year-round. In Europe, it is most commonly encountered in Spain and Portugal, where it occupies suitable habitats from coastal areas to inland mountains.
Elevation Range
Sea level to 3,200 meters
Climate zones
Mediterranean, Arid
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Diet
Thekla's Lark feeds primarily on seeds, particularly from grasses and herbs. It supplements its diet with insects, especially during the breeding season when protein-rich food is crucial for chick development.
The bird often forages in small groups, pecking at the ground to uncover food. It has been observed smashing snail shells against the ground and looking under stones for food.
Behaviour
Thekla's Lark is primarily a ground-dwelling bird, often seen walking or running rather than hopping. It forages on the ground, probing the soil with its bill for food.
During the breeding season, males perform aerial displays, singing while ascending and descending in flight.
Vocalisation
Thekla's Lark has a melodious and varied song, often delivered during flight displays. The song typically consists of a series of warbling notes and trills, sometimes described as 'tiri-tiri-tiri' or 'prrrt-prrrt'.
When alarmed, it produces a sharp 'pit' or 'trit' call. Their vocal repertoire includes some mimicry of other species.
Nesting & Breeding
Breeding season for Thekla's Lark typically occurs from March to July. Pairs form monogamous bonds, with males performing elaborate flight displays to attract mates.
The nest is a cup-shaped structure built on the ground, often sheltered by a small bush or rock. It's constructed using grasses and plant stems, lined with finer materials. The female lays 3-5 eggs, which are pale with brown speckles.
Incubation lasts about 12-13 days, primarily carried out by the female. Both parents feed the chicks, which fledge after approximately 10-12 days but remain dependent on their parents for several more weeks. The young can typically fly 15 days after leaving the nest.
Lifespan
years
The Thekla's Lark typically lives for 3 to 5 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
While Thekla's Lark is currently listed as Least Concern, it faces localised threats from habitat loss due to agricultural intensification and urbanisation.
Conservation efforts focus on maintaining suitable open habitats and promoting sustainable land-use practices in its range.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Thekla's Larks in open, rocky areas with sparse vegetation
- Listen for their melodious song, often delivered in flight
- Observe their ground-foraging behaviour and distinctive crest
- Pay attention to subtle differences from the similar Crested Lark, such as a shorter bill and more streaked appearance
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
Thekla Lark
Family:
AlaudidaePredators
Main predators of Thekla's Lark include birds of prey such as falcons and hawks, as well as ground predators like foxes and snakes.
Did You Know?
- Thekla's Lark is named after Thekla Brehm, daughter of the German ornithologist Christian Ludwig Brehm.
- This species can survive in areas with very little rainfall, adapting to arid conditions.
- Thekla's Lark is often confused with the similar Crested Lark, requiring careful observation for accurate identification.
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References
- 1 2
website: BirdLife International. 2017. Galerida theklae (amended version of 2016 assessment). The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2017: e.T22717387A111112049.
View source - 3
report, 2015: EBCC