The Degodi lark (''Mirafra gilletti degodiensis'') is a lark in the family Alaudidae endemic to Ethiopia. It is now considered a subspecies of

Gillett's lark Gillett's lark (''Mirafra gilletti'') or Gillett's bushlark is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae found in eastern Africa. Taxonomy and systematics Subspecies Three subspecies are recognized: * ''M. g. gilletti'' - Sharpe, 1895: Foun ...

Taxonomy and systematics

Formerly, the Degodi lark was considered to be a separate species, but was re-classified as a subspecies of

in 2012 by the IOC. Many other authorities have not yet followed this taxonomic change. 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.

Description

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''.

Distribution and habitat

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. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical dry shrubland and is found among low

acacia ''Acacia'', commonly known as the wattles or acacias, is a large genus of shrubs and trees in the subfamily Mimosoideae of the pea family Fabaceae. Initially, it comprised a group of plant species native to Africa and Australasia. The genus na ...

bushes on bare soil, with scattered '' Commiphora'' bushes and other species.

Behaviour and ecology

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

Status

It is threatened by habitat loss.

References

*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 Degodi lark Endemic birds of Ethiopia Degodi lark Degodi lark Taxonomy articles created by Polbot {{Alaudidae-stub