Skylark
Alauda arvensis
Overview
Skylarks sing in the air. That ascending song. Moorland. The fells. March to July. They're declining. Red list. But still common in the Lakes. That song is the sound of spring.
At a Glance
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Alaudidae |
| Habitat | Moorland · Grassland · Rough pasture |
| Diet | Seeds, insects |
| UK population | Around 1.5 million territories. Declining. Red list. |
| Lake District | Common on moorland and rough grassland. The fells. That song flight. March to July. You'll hear them before you see them. |
| Conservation | UK Red List |
Where to See It
Moorland and grassland. The fells, Foulshaw Moss, rough pasture. That song. Unmistakeable.
Identification
Brown. Streaked. Crest. Sings in flight. Straight up, then hover. Unmistakeable song.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Moorland. Spring. Listen for the song. They're hard to see on the ground. The song flight gives them away.
Conservation Status
UK Red List
This species is on the UK Red List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating serious concern about its population decline or unfavourable conservation status. Monitoring in the Lake District contributes to national population tracking.
Plan your visit to the Lake District
RSPB Haweswater, Grizedale Forest, Leighton Moss. Practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.