Skylark
Alauda arvensis
The Skylark is a common and widespread species in Britain, typically seen in open countryside, farmland, and heathlands throughout the year, with peak sightings during the breeding season from March to August. It is a ground-nesting bird that can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, arable fields, and coastal areas.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Skylark in the field.
The Skylark can be identified at a glance by its brownish-grey plumage, distinctive black stripe above the eye, and white outer tail feathers, which are visible when the bird is in flight. Its crest, which can be raised or lowered, is also a notable feature.
The Skylark is slightly smaller than a Starling, measuring around 16-18 cm in length, and is larger than a Blue Tit.
The male Skylark's plumage is a streaked brownish-grey colour with a pale underside, and it has a distinctive black stripe above its eye, with a brownish-grey crown and nape, and its plumage remains relatively consistent throughout the year.
The female Skylark's plumage is similar to the male's, although it may be slightly paler and less streaked, but overall, the female's plumage is very similar to the male's.
The Skylark's song is a melodious, ascending series of whistled phrases, often described as a cheerful and energetic tune, while its call is a sharp, metallic "tzeek" or "chirrup" sound.
Skylarks are ground-foraging birds that feed on seeds, insects, and small invertebrates, and they are known for their distinctive, hovering flight style, where they rise high into the air before descending back down to the ground, and they are also notable for their territorial behaviour during the breeding season.
The Skylark can be confused with other lark species, such as the Woodlark, but it can be distinguished by its larger size, more prominent crest, and distinctive black stripe above the eye, as well as its different song and call.
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