Black-crowned Finch Lark - Eremopterix nigriceps
Out at the desert conservation area in Dubai, despite the fact that the heat is now topping 40 degress these smart little larks a pairing up and holding territories. Its a about 30 minute drive, an hour's round trip so its advisable to make sure you have a camera card with you. Last week I spent the time between 8 am and 10 am really just driving about burning petrol due my poor organisation.
There were perhaps 30 or 40 males in the area I went to holding territories. A good piece of shade for the lunchtime excess is a must.
The females are certainly not as handsome as the males with their black and white head pattern.
These are birds of the flat semi-desert and sandy savanna, they enjoy some low scub under which to nest.
I have noticed that these are almost exclusively arab birds from the list of countries they inhabit. A real "MENA'' specialist ("Middle East and North Africa). This female has an Eastern air of mystery about her looks don't you think ? A fine mop of feathers on her head as well.
It was these birds that took me out to the desert in the first place. As it happened I caught up with Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, Cream-coloured Courser, Sand Gazelles and more (see last couple of posts and new page). A productive trip. More like this required ! I should be out now taking photos rather than writing up last week's trip !
Black-crowned Finch Lark, Eremopterix nigriceps
Dubai Desert Conservation Area
13 April 2013
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