Species profile
About this species
The Thick-billed Lark is a robust, stocky lark native to arid & semi-arid regions of North Africa & the Middle East. It is readily identified by its unusually large, thick bill, which it uses to crack open hard seeds & invertebrates. Its pale, sandy-buff plumage provides excellent camouflage against the stony desert terrain it inhabits.
Arid & semi-arid stony desert, gravelly plains & rocky plateaus with sparse vegetation across North Africa & the Middle East
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Thick-billed Lark with us in Morocco.
These departures are part of our Africa programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning shortly after sunrise is ideal when birds are most active & the light is warm & directional. Spring & early summer during the breeding season offer the best chances of observing interesting behaviour & displaying males.
Approach slowly & low to the ground as these birds are wary & will flush quickly if disturbed. Use a long telephoto lens of at least 400mm to maintain a respectful distance while achieving frame-filling shots. Look for birds foraging near rocky outcrops or sparse vegetation where they pause briefly, offering good opportunities for behavioural shots.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Thick-billed Lark
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.