Horned lark (Eremophila alpestris)

The horned lark (Eremophila alpestris), called the shore lark in Europe, is a species of lark in the Alaudidae family found across the northern hemisphere.

Taxonomy and systematics

The specific alpestris is Latin and means “of the high mountains”, from Alpes, the Alps.

Subspecies

Unlike most other larks, this is a distinctive-looking species on the ground, mainly brown-grey above and pale below, with a striking black and yellow face pattern. Except for the central feathers, the tail is mostly black, contrasting with the paler body; this contrast is especially noticeable when the bird is in flight. The summer male has black “horns”, which give this species its American name. North America has a number of races distinguished by the face pattern and back colour of males, especially in summer.

Vocalizations are high-pitched, lisping or tinkling, and weak. The song, given in flight as is common among larks, consists of a few chips followed by a warbling, ascending trill.

In winter time  we can see birds in  some places in Dobrogea.

photo : Mihai BACIU