What is the difference between an oriole and a lark? A quick guide to telling the two birds apart
Orioles and larks have long been featured in many literary works, yet many people do not know the characteristics of these two birds. So what are the differences between orioles and larks? Friends who are unfamiliar with them may as well take a look together.
1. Differences between orioles and larks
The oriole belongs to the order Passeriformes, family Oriolidae, genus Oriolus. It is a medium-sized songbird with brightly colored plumage, mostly combinations of yellow, red and black, and the females and young birds are mostly striped.
The lark belongs to the order Passeriformes, family Alaudidae, genus Alauda. It is a small songbird, usually with a crest on its head formed by a tuft of upright black long feathers shaped like a single horn, and the female has less chestnut-red feathering on the forehead and neck than the male.
2. Tips for choosing a lark
When choosing a lark, whether an adult bird or a nestling, you must first make sure it is male, and then choose according to the following conditions.
1. Choosing a nestling
Pick one that is large and sturdy in build and full of energy; with a big, flat head, a blunt beak, and prominent, lively eyes; a broad chest, a thick neck, strong legs, and a vigorous walk like an ostrich; neat feathers, bright plumage, and a tail that is even and short. It is generally believed that birds with short legs and toes that curve slightly inward (commonly known as "encircling legs") and a round body with a thin tail are easy to tame. Those with long legs and a slender body are strong-willed and hard to train. When choosing a nestling, you should also feel the thickness of the breast muscles to see whether it is underweight. In addition, check whether there is droppings staining around the vent and whether the uropygial gland (commonly known as the bird tip) is intact.
2. Choosing an adult bird
It is most ideal to choose one aged 4 to 5 years, because larks of this age have already been trained to maturity in all respects. First of all, it should be bold, not afraid of people, not afraid of moving objects, not afraid of noise, and not afraid of any color. Secondly, it should be large in build, well proportioned, with thick legs and glossy feathers whose markings are clear. In addition, its call should be loud and crisp, with realistic mimicry and no sloppiness. If it can sing a full repertoire, that is even better.
When selecting an adult bird, remember: "Look at the whole bird from afar, inspect the legs and head up close, step near and poke it with your hand, and see whether it walks away." This means that when choosing a bird, you should first study the whole bird from a distance to see whether its body is slender, whether its build is well matched, whether its neck is short and thick, and whether its chest is broad. Then step closer and observe carefully to see whether the legs are short and thick and whether the head is large. Finally, poke it with your hand to see whether the bird is startled. If it is frightened, it means it is not easy to tame, or it will need some time before it can be tamed.
The above is the relevant content on the differences between orioles and larks compiled by Tuliu.com. We hope it is helpful to you.