Bird : Eremophila alpestris ( Horned Lark - Χιονάδα )
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| Matt Smith - Anarita Park - March 2025 |
Eremophila alpestris, commonly known as the horned lark, is a small passerine bird found across North America, Europe, and Asia. It is the only species in the genus Eremophila, meaning "desert lover," which reflects its preference for open, arid, and alpine habitats.
Identification
- Size: About 16–20 cm in length, with a wingspan of 30–35 cm.
- Plumage: Sandy brown upperparts, pale underparts, and a distinctive black facial mask with a yellowish throat.
- Horns: Males have small black "horns" (feather tufts) on their heads, which give the species its common name.
- Call: A high-pitched, musical song, often given in flight.
Habitat & Distribution
- Found in open landscapes such as tundra, deserts, grasslands, and agricultural fields.
- In North America, it is widespread from Canada to Mexico.
- In Europe and Asia, it inhabits mountainous regions and steppe landscapes.
Diet
- Primarily feeds on seeds and insects, foraging on the ground.
- Diet varies seasonally, with more insects consumed during breeding.
Breeding
- Builds cup-shaped nests on the ground, often hidden among rocks or vegetation.
- Typically lays 2–5 eggs, with both parents involved in raising the chicks.
- Males perform aerial displays to attract mates.
Conservation Status
- Listed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN, but some populations are declining due to habitat loss and climate change.
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| Matt Smith - Anarita Park - March 2025 |
The Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris) is a rare winter visitor to Cyprus. It is not a resident species, but individuals are occasionally observed during migration or winter months. Sightings are uncommon and typically occur in open, barren landscapes, such as coastal plains, semi-deserts, and mountainous areas.
Since Cyprus is located on major bird migration routes, some horned larks may pass through the island while moving between their breeding grounds in Eastern Europe or Central Asia and their wintering areas in the Middle East or North Africa.
If you're looking to spot one in Cyprus, it's best to check dry, open fields or stony terrains in late autumn or winter.
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