Horned Lark
NameHorned Lark
Common NameHorned Lark
Scientific NameEremophila alpestris
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)36.5
Plumage DetailsThis species has a sandy brown back streaked with darker brown, a pale whitish belly, and a striking facial pattern. Key features include a yellow face and throat, a black mask extending from the bill to behind the eye, a black bib on the upper breast, and small, erectile black feather tufts on the head, resembling horns.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a high-pitched, tinkling 'tsee-tsee' or 'tinkling' sound, often given in flight. The song is a series of high-pitched, jumbled notes, sometimes delivered during an aerial display flight.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, tundra, desert, agricultural fields, alpine zones, beaches
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Horned Lark has a widespread distribution across the Northern Hemisphere, breeding in much of North America, parts of Europe, Asia, and mountainous regions of North Africa. It is the only lark species native to North America.
Identifying FeaturesBlack 'horn' feather tufts on head, Yellow and black facial pattern, Black bib on chest, Ground-dwelling behavior, Prefers open, treeless habitats
Description
The Horned Lark is a small, ground-dwelling bird known for its distinctive black feather tufts resembling horns. It forages on open, barren ground, often walking or running rather than hopping, and is well-camouflaged against its sandy surroundings.
