Friday, August 28, 2009

Horned Lark

The horned lark is the only true lark that can be found in North America. Their preferred habitat is open ground, preferably with out grass, which is why they were quite easy to find in the farm field surrounding Hastings, MN.
Open fields suit them well as their main food source is grass seeds. They nest in a depression or hole in the ground. The nest is basket shape and made of grass or other vegetation.
Immature horned larks have a similar facial pattern to the adults except that it is not as dark or defined. While they are young their diet consists mainly of insects with some seeds mixed in. The added protein helps the young birds to grow quickly.

4 comments:

Helen said...

That is a beautiful bird and one I haven't seen or heard of before. Thanks for sharing your pictures and info. Helen

Dan Huber said...

Great shots and good information. I hope to see one myself someday.

dan

Sandy Kessler said...

coloration is perfect

Darla said...

What beautiful photos!!