Horned lark

The horned lark (Eremophila alpestris) is a member of the Passeriformes order, specifically the Alaudidae family. While commonly viewed as a bird of ecological interest, in certain agricultural regions, the horned lark can become a significant pest. When large flocks congregate on newly sown fields, they pose a threat to the establishment of various cereal and legume crops.

The primary damage caused by the horned lark involves the consumption of seeds during the sowing season. By digging into the soil, these birds extract seeds before germination occurs. Furthermore, once crops emerge, the birds may peck at the delicate sprouts, which can lead to thinning of the crop stand and a subsequent decrease in overall yield potential per hectare.

In terms of biology and life cycle, the horned lark is a ground-nesting species that thrives in open, treeless environments. They typically lay eggs in small surface depressions. Once the breeding season concludes, the birds aggregate into larger flocks. These groups move across open farmland to forage, which often brings them into direct conflict with agricultural activities, particularly in regions where late spring crops are planted.

The level of harm is often measured by the density of the flocks and the duration of their presence on the fields. A high concentration of horned larks can devastate a significant percentage of young seedlings in a very short period. Farmers identify the presence of these pests by observing patches of upturned soil and missing seedlings, which indicates the intensity of the foraging activity.

Effective management and protection strategies include:

• Ensuring proper seed depth through precision planting to make seeds less accessible to surface-feeding birds.
• Utilizing acoustic deterrents, such as propane cannons or distress call systems, to discourage birds from lingering on fields.
• Deploying visual scarers, such as raptor kites or motion-activated devices, to simulate a predator presence.
• Using seed coatings with non-toxic, repellent substances that deter birds from consuming the treated seeds.