Larks (Alaudidae)

Lesser Hoopoe-lark (Alaemon hamertoni) - HBW 9, p. 567

French: Sirli de Witherby German: Somaliläuferlerche Spanish: Alondra de Hamerton
Other common names: Witherby’s Lark

Taxonomy: Alaemon hamertoni Witherby, 1905, Obbia, Somalia.
Affinities uncertain in absence of genetic data. May form a superspecies with A. alaudipes; differs, however, from that species in nest and display behaviour. Possible link with Certhilauda proposed by some authors. Geographical variation limited, and possibly clinal; racial identity of birds in NE corner of Somalia not known, tentatively placed with altera but further study needed. Three subspecies recognized.

Subspecies and Distribution: