Horned Lark

Scientific Name: Eremophila alpestris

Population Estimate: 140M

Range: Year-round throughout most of US and Mexico. In summer will extend to Canada and Alaska.

Field Notes: Common bird of open country, usually found in small groups on the ground (and frequently in the road). Male face pattern is distinctive, as above, and will often display the little tufts or "horns" on its head for which it is named. May be confused at first glance with a longspur.

Personal Notes: The only true lark native to North America. Most times we've seen this bird we didn't a good look at the "horns" until we saw them in Wyoming.