Large billed lark

Introduction: Large-billed larks (Galerida magnirostris) are also known as thick-billed larks. They inhabit succulent Karoo and shrub-lined vegetation of Nama Karoo.

Distribution: Only in the extreme south-west of the country, rarely sighted and possibly only a vagrant.
Diet: Eats insects, seeds and some fruits.

Description: A large lark with a long crest and a strong, but slender, sturdy bill. Magnirostris is Greek for 'great-billed'. Another feature is their hind claws, which are strong and straight.
Breeding: Females lay 2 to 4 eggs between July and December, incubated for around 16 days.

Size: 18cm.

Weight: 45g.