Horned Lark

Horned Larks (Eremophila alpestris) are the only member of the lark family native to North America. They prefer to forage on barren ground, and remain nearly invisible until you're right on top of them. More often than not I've inadvertently flushed flocks of them I didn't even know were there. Probably the most interesting thing about this species is that after each migration, the Horned Lark returns to its birthplace. Because of this, local populations of this species have adapted to the colors of their environment, resulting in numerous subspecies.

Sandy Hook - Gateway National Park
Middleown, New Jersey

January 7, 2010