Archer's Lark

Heteromirafra archeri

Larks · Passeriformes · Legendary

The Archer's Lark (Heteromirafra archeri) is a legendary lark found only in Ethiopia, weighing about 25 g. Archer's lark, also known as the Liben lark, is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae.

Critically EndangeredLegendaryEndemicEats invertebratesshrublanddome nest25 g

About the Archer's Lark

Archer's lark, also known as the Liben lark, is a species of lark in the family Alaudidae. It is found in Somalia, Somaliland, and Ethiopia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry shrubland and subtropical or tropical dry lowland grassland. It is threatened by habitat loss. The bird's common name and binomial commemorate the British explorer and colonial official Sir Geoffrey Francis Archer.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

How to identify it

The Liben lark is about 14 cm (5.5 in) long, with a relatively large head and short, plump body. It has buff underparts with a streaky breast. Its plumage is predominantly brown and reddish brown. It has a short, thin tail which is brown with white outer feathers. The call is unknown.

Where it lives

When to see it

Best months: January, February, March, April, October, November, December, with peak activity in January. It is a winter visitor species across most of its range.

Easily confused with

Quick questions

How do you identify an Archer's Lark?
The Liben lark is about 14 cm (5.5 in) long, with a relatively large head and short, plump body. Full identification notes are on this page.
How big is an Archer's Lark?
The Archer's Lark is a small sized bird weighing about 25 g.
Where can you see an Archer's Lark?
The Archer's Lark is endemic to Ethiopia, which is the only country where it occurs.
What birds look similar to an Archer's Lark?
The Archer's Lark is most easily confused with the Rudd's Lark.
Is the Archer's Lark endangered?
The Archer's Lark is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Learn the Archer's Lark for real

BeakBrain drills you on photos and calls until you can greet this bird by name in the field. Free to play, on any device.

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