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This is a breeding resident species represented in the country by two races. The nominate race Alauda gulgula gulula is commonly found throughout the dry lowlands on open grass fields close to water. Alauda gugula australis is a rare breeding resident in the hill country. These birds are found in suitable habitat throughout southern and central Asia.

The conservation status of this species is regarded as Least Concerned (National Red List 2012).

This is a species protected under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance as amended by Act No. 22 of 2009.

This bird can only be confused in the filed with the Jerdons’s Bushlark with which it shares the same habitat. The Skylark however can be instantly differentiated by its crest, which is erected when the bird is excited. Further the centre parts of the upper back feathers of the Skylark are broader and darker than that of the Busklark. It also walks with the body closer to the ground, which gives it an ambling gate, and has a fine bill compared to the Bushlark. The song of the Skylark is well known and has been referred to by many leading poets and authors worldwide. The song is performed by the male while hovering in the sky and is sustained for a few minutes.

I have seen this species through out the dry lowlands on open grass fields close to the coast and on lakeshores in the large inland tanks of the country such as Minneriya, Kaudulla and Kala Wewa. In the north it is common in the Mannar Island, Jaffna Peninsula, Delft Island, Arippu, Devils point, Palaithvu Islands.  In the south I have seen it at Kumana, Yala, Bundala and Udawalawa National Parks.

I have not seen this species inside the park but at Mahawilachchiya tank, which is connected to Wilpattu.