The official bird of Colorado is the Lark Bunting.
Colorado's State Bird: The Lark Bunting
The Lark Bunting (Calamospiza melanocoryus Stejneger) holds the esteemed title of Colorado's official state bird. This distinctive bird is a familiar sight across the plains and grasslands of Colorado, particularly during the breeding season. Its selection as a state symbol reflects the natural beauty and diverse wildlife found within Colorado's borders.
Adoption and Recognition
The Lark Bunting was officially designated as Colorado's state bird on April 29, 1931. This significant decision was enacted through the passage of House Bill 222, 1931, solidifying its place in state history. Its official status is also codified under Colorado Revised Statute 24-80-910, recognizing its importance to the state's identity. Further details about Colorado's various symbols, including the Lark Bunting, can be explored on the Colorado State Archives website.
Characteristics and Habitat
The Lark Bunting is easily recognizable, particularly the male during the breeding season, which boasts striking black plumage accentuated by prominent white wing patches. Females and non-breeding males typically exhibit a more streaky brown coloration. These birds are renowned for their distinctive, melodic songs, often performed during their characteristic aerial displays over the open landscapes they inhabit.
Key aspects of the Lark Bunting include:
- Habitat Preference: They primarily thrive in arid grasslands, expansive prairies, and cultivated agricultural fields.
- Migratory Patterns: As migratory birds, Lark Buntings spend their summers nesting in the Great Plains, encompassing much of Colorado, before migrating to the southwestern United States and Mexico for the winter months.
- Diet: Their diet is mainly composed of seeds and insects, making them an integral part of the local ecosystem.
Why the Lark Bunting Was Chosen
The decision to name the Lark Bunting as Colorado's state bird was influenced by several factors. Its widespread presence across the eastern plains of the state, coupled with its unique beauty and captivating song, made it a fitting emblem. The Lark Bunting symbolizes the vast, open spaces and the importance of preserving the prairie ecosystems that are a vital part of Colorado's natural heritage.
Official Lark Bunting Details
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bird Name | Lark Bunting |
| Scientific Name | Calamospiza melanocoryus Stejneger |
| Adoption Date | April 29, 1931 |
| Legal Basis | House Bill 222, 1931; Colorado Revised Statute 24-80-910 |
| Primary Habitat | Arid grasslands, prairies |
