Bird Magic: Wisdom of the Ancient Goddess for Pagans & Wiccans - Sandra Kynes 2016

Lark and Meadowlark: Horned Lark, Eastern Meadowlark, Western Meadowlark
The Profiles

Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris)

Although the lark and meadowlark are not related, they have remarkably similar plumage coloration and patterns as well as behavior and nesting habits, which has prompted their close association. Because of this, and the fact that their energy is so much alike, they are presented together in this book.

The horned lark is the only true lark in North America. While meadowlarks are actually in the blackbird family, these birds reminded early English settlers of the sky lark (Alauda arvensis) back home. The sky lark, and larks in general, were regarded as the bird of poets. Rising up from the ground singing, they were considered intermediaries between heaven and earth. Meadowlarks also angle their bodies upward on takeoff and sing in flight, enhancing their association with larks.

Sacred to the Gauls, the lark lingered in French folklore as a good omen. Its feathers were used in charms to provide protection from natural disasters as well as from negative people. While most birds in the blackbird family were indicators of rain in folklore, meadowlarks were just the opposite and foretold fine weather. Larks were an indication of good weather, as well.

The name lark comes from the Anglo-Saxon lawerce, meaning “traitor.” ⁸⁸ The only association with traitors is believed to come from the lark’s enthusiastic early morning singing, which would rouse lovers who must part by dawn. This bird has been called the herald of the dawn, and rising early is called “getting up with the lark.”

Magical Workings

Since early times, lark and meadowlark have been considered symbols of the future and springtime, making them appropriate birds to include on your Ostara altar. The cheerfulness and joy associated with these birds are not superficial qualities, but arrived at through introspection and awakening to the song that is in your heart. Call on lark and meadowlark for help with inner quests, finding clarity, and learning to trust intuition.

Because they help stoke the imagination, place an image of either bird on your desk, work table, or anywhere that you engage in creative activities. These birds can give your good luck charms or spells a boost, too. Although they soar to the heavens, lark and meadowlark aid in keeping us grounded. Call on them when centering and grounding after ritual.

Make Connection

To connect with lark and meadowlark energy, spend some solitary time in an open place. Sit on the ground if it is comfortable for you. Close your eyes and imagine yourself soaring up into the sky, rapidly descending, and then once more lifting high into the clouds. Again, you come back toward the earth, swooping low above the open ground, and then gently settling down in the short grass, feeling exalted and alive. If a sudden feeling of joy sweeps over you, lark or meadowlark is present.

Associations

Element(s): Air

Sabbat(s): Litha, Ostara

Solar system: Moon

Ogham: Ur (lark)

Magical beings: Fairies

Bird Identification

Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris)

Size: 6 to 8 inches

Wingspan: 11½ to 13½ inches

Comparative size: Sparrow to robin

Description: White or yellowish face and throat; black bib; broad, black stripe under eyes; black forehead with slanting feathers that give the appearance of horns; short, stout bill; heavily streaked brown upperparts; black tail with gray outer feathers

Male: Horn feathers usually erect

Female: Smaller bib; duller head and face; smaller horn feathers, rarely held erect

Range: From northern Canada, throughout most of the United States except southern Florida; into parts of Mexico

Habitat: Barren open fields, plains, beaches, and airports; prefers bare ground to short grass

Eggs: Pale gray with brown spots

Eastern Meadowlark (Sturnella magna)

Also known as: Common lark, field lark, meadow bird

Size: 9 to 11 inches

Wingspan: 14 to 16 inches

Comparative size: Robin

Description: Long, spear-shaped bill; short tail; rounded wings; brown-streaked upperparts; white-edged tail; bright yellow throat, breast, and underparts; black V on breast

Range: From southeastern Canada through eastern United States to Nebraska, Texas, and parts of the Southwest, into parts of Mexico and Central America

Habitat: Open country, meadows, and pastures

Eggs: White with brown and dull lavender spots

Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta)

Also known as: Common meadowlark, field lark of the West, prairie lark

Size: 8 to 10 inches

Wingspan: 14 to 16 inches

Comparative size: Robin

Description: Long, slender bill; flat head; short, rounded wings; short, stiff tail; streaked brown upperparts; bright yellow underparts; black V on breast; yellow from throat onto cheeks

Range: From southern Canada, throughout the western United States into the Midwest, to the Gulf Coast into Mexico

Habitat: Meadows, plains, and prairies

Eggs: White spotted with brown, rust, or lavender

Collective noun(s): An ascension, a bevy, or an exaltation of larks

88. Wells, 100 Birds and How They Got Their Names, 133.