Glen Tepke
Oceanodroma
I am wondering what subspecies of Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris), also known as Shore Lark, these are:
http://www.birdforum.net/pp_gallery...74&password=&sort=1&size=medium&cat=525&page=
http://www.birdforum.net/pp_gallery...73&password=&sort=1&size=medium&cat=525&page=
The photos were taken very near the coast in northeastern Massachusetts 11/11/02. This was the closest look at this species I've had in this area and I was surprised at how dark the birds were and at the extent of the reddish patches on the nape, sides and wings. The subspecies alpestris, which breeds in northeastern Canada, is a common migrant here. None of the field guide illustrations or descriptions I have found indicate that alpestris gets this dark and red. To me they look closest to some of the west coast (of North America) mountain subspecies, such as rubea or strigata. Any thoughts on the subspecies from anyone more familiar with these birds?
http://www.birdforum.net/pp_gallery...74&password=&sort=1&size=medium&cat=525&page=
http://www.birdforum.net/pp_gallery...73&password=&sort=1&size=medium&cat=525&page=
The photos were taken very near the coast in northeastern Massachusetts 11/11/02. This was the closest look at this species I've had in this area and I was surprised at how dark the birds were and at the extent of the reddish patches on the nape, sides and wings. The subspecies alpestris, which breeds in northeastern Canada, is a common migrant here. None of the field guide illustrations or descriptions I have found indicate that alpestris gets this dark and red. To me they look closest to some of the west coast (of North America) mountain subspecies, such as rubea or strigata. Any thoughts on the subspecies from anyone more familiar with these birds?