Crested Lark.
Slightly larger than a sparrow. It differs from other species of larks by the elongated feathers in the middle part of the crown, forming a pointed crest. The beak is quite long (about 17—20 mm) and more slender than that of the field lark, slightly curved; the nostrils are covered with feathers. The first primary feather is very short, not reaching the end of the coverts. The wing is formed by the 2nd to 5th primary feathers (the first is abortive). The tail is slightly notched. The claw of the hind toe is straight, almost equal to the length of the toe. The upper body is brownish-gray, with longitudinal streaks on the back and chest. The underside is dirty white. The head is adorned with a large pointed crest, giving the bird attractiveness despite the modest coloration of its plumage.
This is a common resident bird. The song of the crested lark is quite loud, reminiscent of the song of the field lark, but not as rich in trills. The call is a melodic and typically lark-like "iri–iri–tri–trii" and a quiet "hoid–hoid." Only males sing. The duration of the singing season is quite long — from mid-February to June. Birds sing both on the ground and in the air.
Larks feed on a mixed diet of plant and animal food: various insects and arachnids, seeds, and vegetative parts of grasses; in winter, they often visit garbage dumps and manure piles along roads.
Their adaptability in feeding makes larks relatively easy to keep in captivity. Crested larks can successfully coexist in spacious aviaries with other bird species. With proper care, crested larks can bring much joy with their singing and interesting behavior. These birds deserve more attention from bird enthusiasts.
The crested lark is very attached to its nesting sites, staying near them year-round. Only deep snow and particularly harsh conditions force it to migrate from its favored locations. It is also faithful to its mate. Unlike other larks, it does not seek to form flocks, being content with the company of its chosen partner throughout its life.
It is widespread in the steppe and desert zones of Kyrgyzstan.
Red Book
