Chestnut-backed sparrow-lark


The chestnut-backed sparrow-lark is a passerine bird which is a resident breeder in Africa south of the Sahara Desert.

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:
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.