Thekla's Lark vs Crested Lark

In short

Thekla's Lark and Crested Lark are similar but can be distinguished by bill shape and crest. Thekla's Lark has a shorter, more curved bill and a less pronounced crest, while Crested Lark features a longer, straighter bill and a spikier crest.

Identification tips

1. Bill shape: Thekla's Lark has a shorter, more curved bill; Crested Lark has a longer, straighter bill. 2. Crest: Thekla's Lark has a less pronounced crest; Crested Lark's crest is longer and spikier. 3. Plumage: Look for more distinct streaking on Thekla's Lark's breast. 4. Habitat: Consider the habitat; rocky and scrubby for Thekla's, open and dry for Crested. 5. Vocalization: Listen for the more varied song of the Crested Lark.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small larks.

Plumage

Thekla's Lark tends to have more distinct streaking on the breast and is generally browner, while Crested Lark is often grayer and can appear paler with less distinct streaking.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar ground-foraging behavior, often seen in open areas.

Habitat

Thekla's Lark is more often found in rocky and scrubby areas, while Crested Lark prefers open, dry areas with sparse vegetation, such as agricultural lands and roadsides.

Voice

Crested Lark's song is a long, varied series of twitters and trills, while Thekla's Lark has a more subdued and less varied song.