Learn 100 Common Valley Birds Blog Post Species #85/100
Few things on earth fill us with as much delight as birds, and knowing them by name only adds to our pleasure. In California’s Central Valley, with only a little bit of effort, anyone can learn 100 local bird species. Especially since on a daily basis Valley Residents come in contact with at least a dozen species that most recognize, but may not know the name of. The intent of this blog is for followers to learn about and be able to identify 100 common valley birds.
A Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain
WHAT’S IN A NAME
Horned Lark – Eremophila alpestris
Name Roots: (Gr. eremos, “lonely”; phileo, “love” – ML. alpestris, “alpine”)
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Squat-looking bird with short legs and low-profile body. Adults are mostly sandy-brown with white belly, sometimes with blurry streaks on sides of breast. Look for bold head pattern, especially black mask and chest band. Throat color varies from yellow to white. Namesake horns on head are sometimes visible at close range.
DISTRIBUTION STATUS IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY
The Horned Lark is a Fairly Common Yearround Resident in California’s Central Valley and can be found in Grasslands, Open Fields and Freshwater Wetlands.
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