A Historic Ranges and current status of the critically endangered Liben Lark (Heteromirafra Archeri) Populations- a review for conservation implication

Historic Ranges and current status of the critically endangered Liben Lark (Heteromirafra Archeri) Populations

Abstract

This review address for the Liben Lark (Heteromirafra Archeri) population across its current and historic range. The Liben Lark disappeared from most of its range since 1970s, remaining only in Ethiopia at Liben and Jijiga Plains where its range and population size is decreasing. This decline was due to habitat loss by different anthropogenic factors and severe drought and climate change. Liben lark prefers a grass sward of intermediate height (5–15 cm), and avoided woody vegetation, very short grass and bare ground, all symptomatic of degraded rangelands. Surveys in 2007 confirmed different information such as; its range previously estimated at 750 sq km was only 40 sq km. and its population previously thought to be about 1600- 2000 birds was estimated to between 90-256 individuals. Currently the remaining habitat is rapidly being degraded by agricultural cultivation and grazing, and the population is estimated to number 50–250 mature individuals.  Further surveys particularly during the breeding season are needed to determine its viability and nest survival and sex ratio. Raise awareness of the local communities and authorities of this important endemic taxon to protect its habitat from degradation and save the species from extinction.