Order Passeriformes | Phylum Chordata Family Alaudidae Scientific name Eremopterix leucotis Rank Species | |
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Similar Bird, Lark, Eremopterix, Flappet lark, Rufous‑naped lark | ||
Filial cannibalism by female chestnut backed sparrow lark eremopterix leucotis
The chestnut-backed sparrow-lark (Eremopterix leucotis) is a passerine bird which is a resident breeder in Africa south of the Sahara Desert.
Contents
- Filial cannibalism by female chestnut backed sparrow lark eremopterix leucotis
- Taxonomy and systematics
- Subspecies
- Description
- Distribution and habitat
- Behaviour and ecology
- References
Taxonomy and systematics
The chestnut-backed sparrow-lark was originally placed in the genus Loxia. Alternate names for this species include: chestnut-backed finch-lark and white-cheeked sparrow-lark.
Subspecies
Five subspecies are recognized:
Description
This is a small lark at 11 cm. The male is striking, with solid black underparts and head apart from brilliant white patches on the nape and behind the eyes. The upperparts and wings are chestnut with some dark streaking. The thick bill is grey.
The female chestnut-backed sparrow-lark is a drabber bird with heavily streaked buff-white underparts and head, and a white nape collar. The upperparts are chestnut with mottling. Young birds are like the female.
Distribution and habitat
This lark is a bird of open dry habitats.
Behaviour and ecology
It nests on the ground and lays one egg. Its food is insects and seeds.
