Horned Lark

The Horned Lark, known scientifically as Eremophila alpestris, presents a striking figure upon the ground. Its plumage is predominantly brown-grey above and pale below, with a distinctive black and yellow facial pattern. The tail, barring its central feathers, is mostly black, providing a stark contrast to the lighter body, particularly noticeable in flight. The male, during the summer months, sports black tufts resembling horns, which have inspired the bird's common name.

Identification Tips

Adult Horned Larks are characterized by their unique facial pattern and the black "horns" of the males. They measure between 16 to 20 centimeters in length, with a wingspan ranging from 30 to 34 centimeters, and weigh approximately 28 to 48 grams. The North American races can be distinguished by variations in the face pattern and back color of the males, especially during the breeding season.

Habitat

This bird favors open landscapes. In Eurasia, it is typically found breeding above the tree line in mountainous regions and the far north. In North America, it is more versatile, occupying farmlands, prairies, deserts, and even man-made structures like golf courses and airports.

Distribution

The Horned Lark has a broad breeding range that spans much of North America, from the high Arctic down to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, as well as northernmost Europe and Asia, and the mountains of southeast Europe. An isolated population also exists on a plateau in Colombia. While southern populations are generally resident, northern populations migrate southward during winter.

Behaviour

Males are territorial during the breeding season, defending their ground against other males. Courtship involves the male singing and performing an aerial display above the female, culminating in a dramatic dive towards the ground.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Horned Lark are high-pitched and tinkling, though considered weak. Its song, typically delivered in flight, starts with a series of chips followed by a warbling, ascending trill.

Breeding

The female Horned Lark selects the nest site, often a natural depression or a cavity she excavates herself. The nest is crafted from fine grasses and lined with softer materials. Clutches typically consist of 2-5 eggs, with incubation lasting 10-12 days and a nestling period of 8-10 days. Both parents feed and defend the chicks.

Similar Species

The Horned Lark is quite distinctive in its range, but care should be taken not to confuse it with other lark species where their ranges overlap.

Conservation status

The Horned Lark is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, populations are in decline, attributed to habitat loss from agricultural practices, urbanization, and collisions with wind turbines. The streaked horned lark subspecies has been listed as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act.