Chestnut backed sparrowlark

Introduction: Chestnut-backed sparrowlarks (Eremopterix leucotis) are also known as Chestnut-backed finches. They are a partial migrant and inhabit short grassland and semi-arid savannah woodland. Several hundred birds can congregate in the non-breeding season, often circling above the ground when disturbed.

Distribution: Common around Etosha National Park. Scattered populations can be observed in Kaokoland, Damaraland and the Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip)
Diet: Forages and pecks on the ground for small grass seeds and insects.

Description: Black-headed, with large white-ear patch (leucotis) and narrow white nuchal collar. A terrestrial and aerial singer. Often confused with the grey-backed sparrowhawk which has sandy grey upper parts.
Breeding: Males and females build a dry grass cup in an excavated scrape in the ground. Usually 2 eggs are laid, year-round, and incubated by both sexes for around 11 days.

Size: 13cm.

Weight: 22g.