Grey backed sparrowlark

Introduction: Grey-backed sparrowlarks (Eremopterix verticalis) are also known as grey-backed finchlarks. They have a wide habitat range including sand and gravel plains with a sparse grass growth and are most common in the Kalahari on limestone flats along rivers and pans.

Distribution: Fairly common and widespread throughout Namibia, including the Namib Desert, Etosha National Park, the Skeleton Coast and the Kalahari Desert.
Diet: Feeds mainly on seeds and spiders they peck from the ground.

Description: A desert bird with a short bill, and small, short legs. Colouration includes a black head and neck with large, distinctive white ear patches.
Breeding: Usually 2 or 3 eggs are laid in a dry grass and stem cup. The incubation period is around 10 days.

Size: 13cm.

Weight: 17g.