Karoo lark

Introduction: Karoo larks (Calendulauda albescens) sing year-round in mostly shrubland habitats with soft, sandy soils. A feature of these birds is their mouse-like actions when running between shrubs, often accompanied by a distinctive alarm call.

Distribution: Lower Namibian Orange River and Fish River Canyon only.
Diet: Forages around tufts of grass or on the ground for termites, grasshoppers, weevils, snails, spiders and beetles. Also takes seeds of grasses.

Description: A boldly patterned face and rich rufous-brown upper parts. Flight feathers are dark brown as are the upper wing coverts.
Breeding: Females build a cup-shaped nest made from dry grass and lined with fine bushman grasses. From 2 to 4 eggs are laid between July and November.

Size: 16cm.

Weight: 30g.