Chondestes grammacus
The Lark Sparrow, *Chondestes grammacus*, is a distinctive New World sparrow named for its remarkably varied and melodic, lark-like song. Measuring 15-17 cm (6-7 inches) in length with a wingspan of 25-27 cm (10-11 inches) and weighing 22-33 grams (0.8-1.2 oz), it is a medium-sized sparrow with an unmistakable head pattern. Its face is adorned with a bold chestnut ear patch, framed by a broad white supercilium and malar stripe, and a distinctive dark central crown stripe. The upperparts are s...
Primarily found in open grasslands, prairies, savannas, and agricultural fields with scattered shrubs or trees, often favoring areas with bare ground. It typically occupies low to moderate elevations, generally below 2,000 meters.
Feeds primarily on insects, especially grasshoppers and beetles, during the breeding season, supplementing with a variety of grass and weed seeds. Forages almost exclusively on the ground.
Lark Sparrows are diurnal, primarily foraging on the ground during the day and roosting in low vegetation or on the ground at night. Their foraging strategy involves gleaning insects and seeds directly from the ground, though they will occasionally make short aerial sallies to catch flying insect...
The breeding range of the Lark Sparrow spans central and western North America, extending from southern Canada (e.g., southern Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba) south through much of the Great Plains, Midwest, and Southwest United States. Its range continues into northern and central Mexico. Durin...
Least Concern
- The "Lark" in its name comes from its rich, complex, and musical song, which shares qualities with those of true larks (family Alaudidae). - It is the only species in its genus, *Chondestes*, highlighting its unique evolutionary divergence. - Lark Sparrows often include small pebbles, chips of ...