How many species of longclaw are in the genus Macronyx?

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Cape longclaw (Macronyx capensis) standing on dry grass, showing its bright orange throat and yellow underparts with brown-streaked upperparts. — Longclaw Cape longclaw, or orange-throated longclaw (*Macronyx capensis*).

There are eight species of longclaw in the genus Macronyx. These African birds are insect-eaters and are related to pipits. They share similarities in size, shape, and coloration with New World meadowlarks, including streaked brown backs, yellow underparts, a black V on the neck, and white tail feathers. This resemblance is an example of convergence, where unrelated species develop similar adaptations due to similar ecological roles.1