Eurasian Skylark

Eurasian Skylarks are territorial birds, especially when nesting. Males mark their territory with melodious songs, which they perform in flight, rising vertically to considerable heights. The nest is built in a hollow on the ground and lined with plant material. The female usually lays 4-5 eggs, which hatch for about two weeks. The young leave the nest shortly after hatching. The skylark populations in the northern parts of the range are migratory and those in the south are sedentary. In the Danube Delta, the skylark can be seen all year round.

Alauda arvensis

Description and how to observe Eurasian Skylark:

The Eurasian Skylark is a small songbird with predominantly light brown plumage dotted with dark stripes. It has a short crest on its head and a thin bill. To spot them, look out for open areas such as fields, meadows and roadsides. The field-hammer is a very vocal bird, its distinctive song can be heard from a distance.

What it feeds on Eurasian Skylark:

Field moorhens feed mainly on insects, seeds and plants. Their diet varies with the season and food availability.

Threats:

The main threats to the Eurasian Skylark are habitat loss due to intensification of agriculture, urbanisation and climate change. The excessive use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers also affects skylark populations by reducing food availability and contaminating the environment.

Ecological role:

Eurasian Skylarks play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to control insect populations and disperse seeds.

More information on Alauda arvensis:

Conservation: The species is on the IUCN Red List and is protected at national and international level.
Curiosities: The field woodlark is considered a bird of the field and has often been mentioned in poetry and literature.

To protect skylarks and other bird species, we can:

Reduce consumption of agricultural products treated with pesticides and chemical fertilisers.
Support habitat conservation initiatives.
Educate people about the importance of biodiversity and protecting the environment.