Finding Horned Larks
You may have seen the fairly common eastern-meadowlarks in fields in summer, but have you ever seen a horned lark? Horned larks are actually the only true lark species native to North America. Though horned larks are year-round residents of the state, though uncommon residents, horned larks are more easily seen in winter when they expand their range while in search of a plentiful food source.
Like eastern meadowlarks, horned larks are found in large fields with fairly tall grass, but not to tall. Fields grazed by cows and horses are prime habitat for horned larks. These birds, which are just a little bit smaller than eastern meadowlarks, are named for their black tufts oon the sides of their head which resemble small horns.
The best place to look for horned larks is in rural areas where there are cast fields filled with short grass. Horned larks are often seen in large flocks, and often move together, moving to wherever food is plentiful. Though these birds are fairly uncommon in Ohio, though year-round residents, they can be found with a little luck. They are more common in winter (as said above), when it is cold out, and some snow on the ground. This sends them out looking for food, and they may travel a long ways looking for it.
Quite a few sightings of horned larks have been reported in winter 2012 through present. Click the link below to see an Ohio map showing horned lark sightings in the time fram listed above.