Rufous-tailed Lark (Ammomanes phoenicura)

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**Rufous-tailed Lark (Ammomanes phoenicura)** 🐦🔥

The Rufous-tailed Lark (Ammomanes phoenicura) is a striking, ground-dwelling bird known for its rufous-colored tail and earthy brown plumage, perfectly adapted to its dry, rocky, and semi-arid habitat. Found across India and parts of Pakistan, this species is highly adapted to grasslands, dry riverbeds, and agricultural fields. While its presence in the Sundarban is unlikely, it may be observed in nearby drylands and open patches along the coastal region.

📌 Taxonomy and Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Passeriformes
Family: Alaudidae
Genus: Ammomanes
Species: Ammomanes phoenicura

This species belongs to the lark family (Alaudidae), known for its ground-dwelling and melodious singing birds.

🔍 Morphology and Physical Characteristics

Size: Medium-sized lark, measuring 15–17 cm (5.9–6.7 in) in length.
Weight: Approximately 30–40 grams.
Plumage:
- Reddish-brown (rufous) tail, a defining feature. 🔥
- Earthy brown upperparts, blending with dry terrain.
- Buff-colored underparts with faint streaking.
- Short, strong beak, ideal for cracking seeds.
Sexual Dimorphism:
- Males and females look similar, though males may appear slightly brighter during breeding season.
Juveniles:
- Paler than adults with less distinct rufous tail markings.

🌍 Habitat and Distribution

The Rufous-tailed Lark is widespread across India, Pakistan, and parts of Nepal, typically found in:

Semi-arid grasslands and open scrublands.
Rocky outcrops and dry riverbeds.
Farmlands and human-modified landscapes.

📍 Presence in Sundarban

The Sundarban’s dense mangrove forests are not suitable for this species.
However, dry agricultural fields and coastal grasslands in the buffer zones may support occasional sightings.

🥣 Diet and Feeding Behavior

The Rufous-tailed Lark is omnivorous, consuming:

Grass seeds and grains, commonly found in dryland habitats.
Small insects (ants, beetles, termites), especially during breeding season. 🦗
Nectar and flower buds, though less frequently.

It forages on the ground, using its short, powerful beak to pick up food efficiently.

⚡ Special Features and Behavior

Expert Camouflage: Its earthy tones help it blend into the dry landscape. 🏜️
Melodious Song: Males sing from rocky perches or mid-air, producing sweet, repetitive notes. 🎶
Territorial Birds: Males aggressively defend nesting sites during breeding season (February–June).
Short Burst Flights: Prefers quick, low-altitude flights, rarely staying airborne for long.

🛡️ Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN Red List. ✅
Major threats:
- Habitat loss due to increasing agricultural expansion.
- Overgrazing and desertification reducing available foraging areas.

While not directly threatened, conservation of open grassland ecosystems is crucial for this species’ survival.

The Rufous-tailed Lark is a resilient and melodious bird, perfectly adapted to India’s arid landscapes. Though not a primary species of the Sundarban, occasional sightings in drier patches and agricultural zones near the mangrove buffer areas may occur. For birdwatchers and nature lovers, a Sundarban private tour offers a chance to explore diverse avian species beyond just mangrove specialists. 🦜🌿