Degodi lark

Formerly, the Degodi lark was considered to be a separate species, but was re-classified as a subspecies of Gillett's lark in 2012 by the IOC.[1] Many other authorities have not yet followed this taxonomic change.[2] The alternate name "Sidamo lark" is also used as alternate name by Archer's lark. Other alternate names include Degodi bushlark and Erard's lark.

The Degodi lark is a small (14 cm long), slender lark, with abundant streaking, very similar to a pipit. There are markings on the breast faint on light, buff underbelly. The voice is a 4- to 6-note trill; twill-ill-ill-ill-ill, and shorter tsee-tsee.[3]

There is, at present, no more than a rough sketch of the Degodi lark, gleaned from infrequently gathered facts. This, as well, goes for its population and range, but it is believed to have a very small population. Its known range covers about 400 square kilometres, possibly up to 2,000 square kilometres. It is seen most reliably east of Bogol Manya, Ethiopia.[3] Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical dry shrubland and is found among low acacia bushes on bare soil, with scattered Commiphora bushes and other species.

Degodi larks are often seen using bushes for perches. It eats caterpillars and small orthopterans.

It is threatened by habitat loss.[3]

• Collar, N. J., C. Dingle, M. N. Gabremichael, and C. N. Spottoswoode. 2009. Taxonomic status of the Degodi Lark Mirafra degodiensis, with notes on the voice of Gillett's Lark M. gilletti. Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 129: 49-62