Bengal bush lark facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Bengal bush lark
At Joka in Kolkata.
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification
Genus:	Mirafra
Species:	assamica

The Bengal bush lark (Mirafra assamica) is a small bird found in parts of Asia. It is also sometimes called the Bengal lark or the rufous-winged lark. This bird belongs to the lark family, known for their beautiful songs.

About the Bengal Bush Lark

How Scientists Classify Birds

It can be tricky to tell different types of larks apart. They often look very similar. Scientists study many things, like their songs, to figure out how they are related.

Scientists used to think the Bengal bush lark was part of a bigger group. But after studying their songs and how they act, they decided to split them into separate species. This is how the Jerdon's bush lark and the Burmese bush lark became their own species.

What Does It Look Like?

The Bengal bush lark is a small bird, about 15 centimetres long. That's roughly the length of a pen! It has a short tail and a strong, thick beak.

Its back is grey with dark streaks, and its belly is a light, yellowish-brown color. You might see spots on its chest and behind its eyes. A special feature is its wings, which are a reddish-brown color, also known as rufous.

What Does It Sound Like?

This lark is known for its song. It sings a repeated series of two-part notes. It often sings while flying high in the sky. This special flight is called a "song-flight."

Where Do They Live?

Home Sweet Home

The Bengal bush lark lives in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. You can find them in countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, and Nepal. They live in a large area, covering many square kilometres.

Preferred Places to Live

These larks like dry, open areas. They often live in stony places with a few shrubs. You might also spot them in farm fields or other cultivated areas. They are quite common in these types of habitats.

Life and Habits of the Bengal Bush Lark

Nesting and Eggs

The Bengal bush lark builds its nest on the ground. It lays three or four eggs in its nest. The eggs are usually speckled with small spots.

What Do They Eat?

This bird mostly eats seeds and insects. During the breeding season, when they are raising their young, they eat more insects. Insects provide important nutrients for growing chicks.

Gallery

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  In Kolkata

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  Showing wing colour while preening in Kolkata

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  In Kolkata, West Bengal, India

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  With paddyfield pipit (Anthus rufulus) in Kolkata, West Bengal, India

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  In Kolkata, West Bengal, India

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  In Kolkata, West Bengal, India

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  Preening in Kolkata, West Bengal, India

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  In Kolkata, West Bengal, India

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  At Hetauda, Nepal

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  Bengal bush lark in Boshipota, West Bengal, India

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  In Gazipur, Bangladesh