Indian Bushlark (Mirafra erythrocephala)

The Indian Bushlark (Mirafra erythrocephala) is a small but vocal bird known for its melodious song and distinctive rufous crown. Found across the dry and open landscapes of India, it thrives in grasslands, scrublands, and agricultural fields. Though more commonly associated with inland areas, occasional records suggest that it can also be spotted in certain dry patches of the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve, particularly in the buffer zones and fringes.

Taxonomy and Classification

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Passeriformes
• Family: Alaudidae
• Genus: Mirafra
• Species: Mirafra erythrocephala

The Indian Bushlark belongs to the Alaudidae family, which includes various species of larks adapted to open habitats.

Morphology and Physical Characteristics

• Size: Small bird, measuring 14–16 cm (5.5–6.3 in) in length.
• Weight: Approximately 25–35 grams.
• Plumage:
  • Brownish body with streaked upperparts, providing excellent camouflage.
  • Rufous-colored crown, distinct from similar lark species.
  • Whitish underparts with dark streaks on the breast.
  • Short tail and rounded wings, ideal for short bursts of flight.
• Sexual Dimorphism:
  • Males and females look similar, but males are more vocal and active during the breeding season.
• Juveniles:
  • Resemble adults but with less distinct streaking and a paler crown.

Habitat and Distribution

The Indian Bushlark is widely found across peninsular India, with populations extending into:

• Pakistan and Nepal (dry lowland regions).
• Grasslands, semi-arid scrublands, and open cultivated fields.
• Dry coastal forests and sandy patches, though rare.

Presence in Sundarban

While Sundarban’s mangrove ecosystem is not ideal for bushlarks, records indicate that some populations may exist in:

• Fringes of Sundarban, where dry scrub vegetation occurs.
• Open agricultural fields and sandy riverbanks near human settlements.

However, sightings are sporadic and seasonal, likely due to occasional movement from drier inland areas.

Diet and Feeding Behavior

The Indian Bushlark is omnivorous, feeding on:

• Seeds and grains, often foraging in agricultural fields.
• Small insects (grasshoppers, ants, and beetles), especially during breeding seasons.
• Nectar and small berries, though infrequent.

It forages on the ground, using quick hopping movements to search for food.

Special Features and Behavior

• Melodious Song: Males are excellent singers, often performing aerial displays while singing.
• Camouflage Adaptation: Their streaked brown plumage blends with dry grass and soil, making them hard to spot.
• Territorial Nature: Males aggressively defend their nesting areas, particularly in breeding months (March to June).
• Short, Burst Flights: Unlike other larks, they take quick vertical flights, often returning to the same perch.

Conservation Status

• Classified as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN Red List, but habitat loss due to urban expansion is a growing threat.
• While not directly threatened in Sundarban, increasing agriculture and deforestation in nearby buffer zones may impact their presence.

The Indian Bushlark is a small yet fascinating bird, best known for its sweet songs and excellent camouflage. Though not a primary species of the Sundarban, occasional sightings in drier patches and grasslands near the mangroves suggest its potential adaptation to semi-coastal environments. For birdwatchers, exploring the Sundarban’s buffer areas with a Sundarban private tour package can provide opportunities to spot rare passerines like this one.

Footnote

For more details on the Indian Bushlark, visit its Wikipedia page.