Identification
A medium-sized lark that has a rounded head lacking a crest, and a slightly decurved bill. Varies geographically: in the north there is a plain face pattern and diffuse pale streaking that is restricted to the breast; in the south a bold face pattern, and a heavily streaked breast with unstreaked flanks. Upperparts coloration varies from mostly pale sandy-pink to buff to sandy-brown, usually matching the prevailing soil color in the region. Pairs are found in the sand dunes of the Namib Desert, and on soft sands of semi-arid Karoo and coastal shrublands. The male sings from dunes or bushes, and in spring also performs an aerial flight display 10-30 meters above the ground, with deep wingbeats, fluttering, and dangling legs. The song is a distinctive rolling set of dry raspy introductory clicks, followed by whistles and trills. The slightly smaller and more boldly marked Karoo Lark has streaking extending to the flanks that is lacking in Dune Lark.