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The skylark is the state bird of Colorado, a medium-sized sparrow with a black body and a white patch on its wing. Males are larger and more recognizable than females, and their plumage changes from black and white in summer to brown in winter. They nest on the ground and eat insects and seeds. They can be found on the prairies in the Midwestern United States and southern Canada in summer, and migrate to Mexico in winter. During courtship, males fly and sing a distinctive song. Adopted as the state bird in 1931.
The skylark, or Calamospiza melanocorys, is the state bird of Colorado. It is a medium-sized bird, and like many other bird species, the mature male is much more recognizable than the female. While primarily black, it has a bright white patch on its wing. In winter, however, this plumage is replaced by more inconspicuous feathers.
The state bird of Colorado is a type of sparrow. It belongs to the Emberizidae family. In the spring of 1931, the skylark was adopted as the official state bird of Colorado.
Male larks are somewhat easy to recognize. They are approximately 6 inches (15 centimeters) long. Generally the females are a little smaller than the males, and have less showy plumage in summer.
Mature males typically have black feathers in spring and summer, during the breeding season. They also typically have a bright white patch of feathers on their wings. During the fall, these feathers begin to change into their winter plumage, which is much grayer.
In winter, males are mostly brown. The back, head and wings are brown, for example. The breast and underparts, however, are white or tan. Dark brown or black stripes on the back and sides are also often seen. Sometimes, a white spot on the wings can also be seen.
The female Colorado state bird looks very similar to the male in winter. Even immature males are brown with dark streaks. The hatchlings are usually covered in soft gray hair.
Colorado state bird nests are typically found on the ground. Many times, they will be built under shrubbery. Skylarks are also typically earth gatherers. During the warm months, they often prefer to eat insects, but they also eat seeds. Occasionally, these birds also chase after insects, catching them in mid-flight.
During the summer, the Colorado state bird can be found on the prairies in many parts of the Midwestern United States. They can also be found in some southern parts of Canada. In the fall, large flocks of the Colorado state bird will fly south. It will then spend the winter in Mexico and return to its breeding grounds in the spring.
Males usually return to their breeding grounds before females. During their courtship ritual, several males will fly through the air before flying back. While flying, they will also sing a distinctive courtship song.
