Shore lark
Scientific name: Eremophila alpestris
This distinctive lark is a passage migrant and winter visitor to the UK, most often found along the east coast of Britain.
Species information
Statistics
Length: 16cmWingspan: 32cm
Conservation status
Classified in the UK as Amber under the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2021)
When to see
October to AprilAbout
Shore larks were once a rare breeding species in Scotland, but are now only seen during migration periods or as winter visitors from populations in Scandinavia.As the name suggests, in the UK shore larks are usually seen on the coast, where they favour saltmarshes and shingle shores. Most records come from the east coast of England. Shore lark numbers can vary dramatically - some winters might see only a few birds in the whole of the UK, while in exceptional years there can be hundreds. The population that visits the UK has declined rapidly in recent decades, possibly as a result of overgrazing on their breeding grounds.