The sand lark (Alaudala raytal) name raytal is derived from the Hindi name of retal which is derived from réth, the word for sand. Similar but smaller than the short-toed larks, it is pale grey-brown with a weak crest. Three subspecies are recognised, all of which are dull brownish grey with faintly streaked upperparts and appears distinctly short-tailed with a fine bill. It is found across north-central India to Myanmar.