SHORE LARK. 



87 



There is a singular appearance in this bird which I have never 

 seen taken notice of by former writers, viz. certain long black fea- 

 thers, which extend, by equal distances beyond each other, above 

 the eye-brow; these are longer, more pointed, and of a different 

 texture from the rest around them; and the bird possesses the 

 power of erecting them so as to appear as if horned, like some of 

 the Owl tribe. Having kept one of these birds alive for some time 

 I was much amused at this odd appearance; and think it might 

 furnish a very suitable specific appellation, viz, Alaudci corniita, or 

 Horned Lark. These horns become scarcely perceivable after the 

 bird is dead. The head is slightly crested. 



Shore Lark and Sky Lark are names by which this species is 

 usually known in different parts of the union. They are said to 

 sing well; mounting in the air, in the manner of the Song Lark 

 of Europe; but this is only in those countries where they breed. 

 I have never heard of their nests being found within the territory 

 of the United States. 



