Horned Lark
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/68466173@N02">Imran Shah</a> from Islamabad, Pakistan (CC BY-SA 2.0)
NameHorned Lark
Common NameHorned Lark
Scientific NameEremophila alpestris
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)31
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)36.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaked brownish-pink to sandy brown, providing camouflage. Underparts are whitish. The head features a striking pattern with black feather tufts (horns), a black mask extending from the bill to below the eye, a black malar stripe, and a broad black breast band. The forehead and supercilium are typically pale yellow or white.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a high-pitched, tinkling series of notes, often delivered in flight. Calls include a sharp, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'tsee-titi'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, tundra, agricultural fields, deserts, alpine meadows
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Horned Lark has a very wide distribution, breeding across much of North America, parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is the only lark species native to North America.
Identifying Featuresblack feather tufts (horns), black facial mask, black breast band, pale yellow or white forehead, streaked brown upperparts
Description
The Horned Lark is a small, ground-dwelling bird known for its distinctive black 'horns' or feather tufts on its head. It typically inhabits open, treeless areas, foraging for seeds and insects on the ground. Its plumage provides excellent camouflage against its barren or grassy habitats.
