The Skylark
Alauda arvensis
The skylark is a small brown bird, somewhat larger than a sparrow but smaller than a starling. It is streaky brown with a small crest, which can be raised when the bird is excited or alarmed, and a white-sided tail. The wings also have a white rear edge, visible in flight. It is renowned for its display flight, vertically up in the air. Its recent and dramatic population declines make it a Red List species.
Where does it live?
Breeding
The skylark is found mainly in lowland farming areas, preferring those with a covering of grass or low green herbage, but it may also be found in suitable upland grassy areas. It is generally found in open habitats and avoids isolated trees and tall hedges.
Wintering
In winter it prefers stubble fields, root crops and young pasture.
Where to see it
Likes open countryside, from lowland farmland to upland moorland. Often inconspicuous on the ground, it is easy to see when in its distinctive song flight.
What does it eat?
Seeds and insects
What does it sound like?
Call a liquid 'chirrup'; continuous warbling song
When to see it
All year round.