Sky Lark
Scientific Name: Alauda arvensisMaltese Name: Alwetta
Family: Larks (Alaudidae)
Occurence: Common
Breeds in Malta: No
Overview:
The Skylark is the classic lark of European farmland, widespread throughout Europe. Its size is between a sparrow and a thrush. It has brown sandy plumage with dark stripes on back. It has a blunt brown black crest and a pale whitish stripe on eye, buff breast and whitish belly. It also has a long hind claw too. It forages the ground in grass or bare soil, eating seeds, shoots and insects. The Skylark is a social bird and it's normally seen in flocks flying and also feeding together. It is often flushed when walking, giving off a chirruping call shruuup truup! It builds it's nest on the ground laying 3 to 5 eggs, having 2-3 broods. In autumn, bird populations of North and East Europe, move further south in sizeable flocks. Although widespread, unfortunately the Skylark overall population has declined in recent years mainly due to intensive modern agricultural practices.
Status:
The Skylark is a common migrant. It is legally hunted in autumn and winter as it is one of the most common birds shot. Falls may occur, meaning large numbers are recorded. Most recent fall was on the 22nd October 2009 mainly in the morning bringing many hundreds in, due to the bad weather.
When to See:
Best period is between October and November when large flocks may come in from the sea as it's at this time when birds are moving across Europe. A few birds winter with us. In spring, mostly March, return passage is also noticed but in smaller numbers
Where to See:
Prefers open areas with low shrubs and bushes. The Skylark is a bird of open spaces. It is also seen on garrigue and in farmed areas. It is also recorded by birdwatchers coming in from the sea in flocks. Malta International Airport is also very good
Photographs:
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Sky Lark, Majjistral Natural Park |
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Sky Lark, Comino |
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