Short-toed Lark

🔍 Overview

A rare spring and autumn migrant in Sussex, mainly along the coast. Small and sandy, often overlooked among Skylarks.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Smaller than Skylark (13–15 cm)

Plumage: Sandy brown above, pale below, with faint breast streaking

Other: Short tail, short stubby bill, lacking obvious crest

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Best chance of spotting at Beachy Head, Seaford Head, or Shooter’s Bottom in April–May or October.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Dry, rattling “drrrt.” Skulking behaviour—flushes quickly from short grass.