Lesser Short-toed Lark

Calandrella rufescens

(C. r. pseudobaetica)

Armenian Name:	Մոխրագույն արտույտ

See Plate 39 for Lesser Short-toed Lark and other similar species

Resident Status:	Breeding bird
Abundance:	Common
Length:	13-14 cm, Wing Span:24-32 cm
Distribution Map:	Map 206.
Description:	Slim drab gray-brown lark with finely-streaked breast band and flanks, distinct primary extension, and short thick bill.
Adult:	Dull; dark streaks more obvious in fresh plumage.
Juvenile:	Pale feather edges above.
Similar Species:	Differs from Greater Short-toed Lark by duller plumage, finely-streaked breast, and shorter thicker bill.
Habitat:	Semidesert; mountain steppe on migration.
Food:	Invertebrates, seeds.
Nest:	Shallow ground scrape.
Eggs:	20 mm, 3-5, pale bluish, gray-brown spots.