Shore Lark

🔍 Overview

A scarce winter visitor to the UK, including coastal Sussex. Notable for its striking appearance and preference for shingle beaches and open ground.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Similar to Skylark (16–18 cm)

Plumage: Buff with yellow face and black mask; small black “horns” in adults

Other: Short bill, pale underparts, striking head pattern

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Occasionally recorded on shingle beaches at Cuckmere Haven, Rye Harbour, or Shoeburyness in winter months, especially after easterly winds.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Soft “tsee” calls. Feeds on seeds, often in small flocks on the ground.