Image via Macaulay Library
Black Lark
- Scientific name
- Melanocorypha yeltoniensis
- Family
- Alaudidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Grassland
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Notched
Where it came from
The Black Lark, scientifically known as Melanocorypha yeltoniensis, is a distinctive passerine bird primarily native to the dry steppes of Kazakhstan and southern Russia. It was formally described by the naturalist Johann Reinhold Forster in 1768, emerging from an era of intensive European exploration of the Eurasian interior. Its adaptation to harsh, arid environments is reflected in its resilient physiology, which allows it to thrive in landscapes often inhospitable to more delicate avian species.
The physical design of the Black Lark is a masterclass in functional evolutionary aesthetics, characterized by its pointed wings and notched tail. These features are highly specialized for the bird's characteristic display flights and its ability to traverse open, wind-swept plains with precision. Ornithologists have long noted that the striking, almost entirely black plumage of the male during the breeding season serves as a dramatic visual contrast against the pale, sparse vegetation of its habitat, marking a clear functional purpose in courtship and territory defense.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Black Lark
Black Lark is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Black Lark on collecto.rs?
Black Lark doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Black Lark?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Black Lark catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Black Lark is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
