This bird bears some resemblance to the Sky Lark, but it is smaller in size. It is said to be superior in the melody and rich tone of its song to the other, but inferior in variety and compass of voice. Of this we cannot speak from experience, as we have never heard one, or seen a specimen. In Scotland it is scarcely ever seen: indeed, in England, it is only found at times in some particular counties, and lately some few have been seen in Ireland. In Britain it is a very rare bird, but it is found in greater numbers on the Continent; and as it may yet be brought here we will tell all we can learn about it. In its habits it differs; it is what is called arboreal. It perches upon trees, on which it will sit and sing; also, it sings on the wing, like the other, but it does not rise perpendicular, but sails round in circles, and when it attains to a great height, it will remain stationary and sing, it is said, for hours together, in the same manner as when perched on a tree.

Food

The same as the Sky Lark, and likewise the cage.

Characteristics Of The Sexes

The upper parts of the male are rather darker than the Sky Lark, being a brownish black; the lower parts straw yellow; the streak round the eye brighter, the feathers on the crown, which it forms into a crest, are longer. The female is more spotted, and the yellow almost white, like the female of the Sky Lark.

Location

Found throughout Europe. Not numerous. Partially migratory.