Horned Lark
Image: Ciara McKim (cc-by-nc)
NameHorned Lark
Common NameHorned Lark
Scientific NameEremophila alpestris
FamilyAlaudidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown, often with pinkish-buff tones, while underparts are pale, typically whitish. Adults have a distinctive black mask across the eyes, a black breast band, and yellow or white on the face and throat. The 'horns' are small, erectile black feather tufts on the sides of the crown.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include high-pitched, tinkling calls often given in flight, and a series of clear, whistled notes during its song flight.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, tundra, agricultural fields, deserts, prairies
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidely distributed across North America, parts of northern Europe, and Asia. It is the only lark native to North America and has one of the largest ranges of any songbird.
Identifying FeaturesSmall feather tufts ('horns') on the head, Black facial mask and breast band (in adults), Yellow or white on face and throat, Streaky brown upperparts, Ground-dwelling behavior in open habitats
Description
The Horned Lark is a small, ground-dwelling songbird characterized by its streaky brown plumage and distinctive feather tufts on its head, resembling 'horns'. It forages on the ground in open, treeless environments, often blending seamlessly with its surroundings.
