Larks are passerine birds of the family Alaudidae. They are small to medium-sized birds.
They have more elaborate calls than most birds, and often extravagant songs given in display flight. With these song flights, males defend their breeding territories and attract mates.
Like many ground birds, most lark species have long hind claws, which are thought to provide stability while standing. Most have streaked brown plumage, some boldly marked with black or white. Their dull appearance camouflages them on the ground, especially when on the nest.