The best feeder for horned larks
The bird of bare fields, airports and roadsides; one of the earliest nesters, sometimes in February.
Feeder styles that work
Mimics natural ground foraging; place within 10 ft of shrubs.
What to fill it with
- Cracked corn
- Millet (on bare ground)
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Horned Lark measures 6.3–7.9 in and weighs 148–1.7 oz. Perches, ports and landing surfaces need to fit that frame — too small and the bird can't feed comfortably, too open and larger birds and squirrels dominate.
Keep it clean
Scrub feeders every two weeks in hot soapy water, soak 10 minutes in a 1:9 bleach solution, rinse and dry before refilling. Rake up hulls underneath.
Frequently asked
What kind of feeder is best for horned larks?
Low ground tray under cover. Mimics natural ground foraging; place within 10 ft of shrubs.
What should I put in a feeder for horned larks?
Cracked corn, Millet (on bare ground).
Where should I place a feeder for horned larks?
The bird of bare fields, airports and roadsides; one of the earliest nesters, sometimes in February.
Sources
- Horned Lark — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Horned Lark life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Horned Lark — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.