Tawny Lark
Galerida deva
A pale yellowish-brown lark with a long, spiky crest and a thick, short bill. The heavy streaking on the upperparts contrasts strongly with the rest of the plumage. Similar to the Malabar and Crested Larks, but Tawny is smaller, with minimal streaking on the breast, paler cheeks, and a different bill shape. It is found in dry, stony fields and grassland. Sings in flight with relaxed wingbeats. The song is extraordinarily rich, long, and continuous, including complex and effortless imitations of other species.
Taxonomy
Originally, Sykes's lark was classified as belonging to the genus Alauda. Alternate names for Sykes's skylark include Deccan crested lark, Deccan lark, Sykes's crested-lark, tawny crested lark and tawny lark.
- Scientific name
- Galerida deva
- Authority
- (Sykes, 1832)
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Alaudidae
- Genus
- Galerida
Range and habitat
- Migration
- Resident species
Conservation
- Population trend
- stable
Photos
Distribution
Bird Calls
Other Birds
Dartford Warbler
Curruca undata
Plumage is rather dark overall, grayish above and dull wine-red below; note narrow red eyering and fairly bright yellowish legs. No similar species in most of its range. Skulking and difficult to see well, although when singing in spring may perch atop a bush, the long tail often held slightly cocked. Song is composed of short whistles and harsher rattles; calls are dry and scolding. Breeds in dense scrubby habitats, especially heathland with gorse. Winters in similar habitats, albeit averaging more open and occasionally grassy.
Meadow Pipit
Anthus pratensis
Fairly common to common in open grassy habitats, from moorland and bogs to rough grassland and pastures. Mostly inconspicuous, small streaky brown bird. When flushed, note slightly bounding flight and white sides to tail. All pipits look rather similar and are best identified to species by combination of habitat and voice: Meadow Pipit call a high, slightly lisping "sip" and "sip-it" (or "pip-it").
Red-cockaded Woodpecker
Dryobates borealis
Rare and declining woodpecker found exclusively in open pine woodlands. Boldly patterned black and white; note especially prominent white cheek and barred back. Male's namesake red spot at back of crown is tiny and difficult to see. Typically seen in pairs or family groups. Listen for high, squeaky "peek" calls and lower "churr." Does not visit bird feeders.
Start Your Bird Watching Journey
Identify a bird outdoors and keep the field guide close for your next observation.