Nest and nestling data for Barlow’s lark, <i>Calendulauda barlowi</i>

Abstract

Barlow’s lark is one of southern Africa’s least known lark species. This study is the first to report on the structure and dimensions of this species’ nest and aspects of the  nestling period. The ontogenetic development of the nestling is described with regard to plumage development, increase in mass and growth of the head and tarsus. The  parameters of the logistic growth curve for the increase in mass and growth of the tarsus are also provided. The nestling period lasted 13 days and both sexes contributed to feeding nestlings exclusively on invertebrates.

Key words: Barlow’s lark, Alaudidae, Calendulauda, nestling period, breeding biology.