ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

Blue Lark (Lullula arborea)

The blue lark, scientifically known as Lullula arborea, is a bird species belonging to the lark family (Alaudidae). It inhabits the southwestern Palearctic region, spanning from England and Portugal in the west to northwest Iran and Turkmenistan. This small species of lark primarily resides in sunny open spaces or on the edge of forests.

The blue lark measures 13.5 to 15 centimeters in body length, making it significantly smaller than its counterpart, the field lark. Its primary coloration features a dull light brown top, with finely light-beige and dark longitudinally striped upper head and back. The burzel is single-color brown, while the wings are dark gray-brown. Notable markings include white bases on the large hand blankets, which form a visible badge on the wing's bow when seated; grey-brown tails with small white tip spots on the third to fifth control springs.

The species exhibits striking bright overeye stripes that combine at the back of the head in a v-shape. A fine dark grey line borders these stripes at the bottom and extends along the lower edge of the eye, delimiting the ear coverings at the front. The ear coverings are strong reddish-brown, while the beard is broad white, with a dark gray chin and white throat. The upper chest features finely light-beige and dark longitudinally striped patterns on a whitish background.

The legs are yellowish brown to flesh-colored, with slender beaks that are brown rough and brightened at the base. In terms of vocalizations, the blue lark's melodic chant is primarily recited from a singing position.

Distribution and Habitat

The blue lark inhabits sunny open spaces in or on the edge of forests, particularly in Central Europe during breeding seasons. During winter months, it migrates to southwestern Europe as well as the northern Mediterranean region. Its distribution also extends to southern Europe, northwestern Africa, the Middle East, Iran, Turkmenistan, Crimea, and the Caucasus.

Behavior and Ecology

The male blue lark's song flight is similar to that of the Eurasian skylark but features more fluttering movements as it rises and spirals upwards. Both males and females will sing from the ground or a perch. The female lays 3-5 eggs, which are incubated for approximately 13-15 days. After