longspur

Longspur is a common name applied to a group of small ground-dwelling passerine birds in the family Calcariidae. The group includes several species such as the Lapland longspur, Chestnut-collared longspur, and Smith’s longspur. These birds are generally medium-sized with brown or grayish upperparts and lighter, often streaked underparts. Breeding males typically display more pronounced plumage than females.

Longspurs inhabit open habitats, including tundra, grasslands, prairies, and other sparsely vegetated areas. They are widespread across North America and Eurasia, with different species occupying various portions of these regions. Outside the breeding season, longspurs often form loose flocks and can be found in mixed-species foraging groups.

Diet is primarily granivorous, consisting largely of seeds, grasses, and other plant matter. Insects are taken opportunistically, especially during the breeding season when chicks require higher protein. Foraging is mainly on the ground, where they walk or run between patches of vegetation.

Breeding behavior centers on ground- or low-vegetation nests. The female typically builds a cup-shaped nest, and clutches consist of several eggs. Both parents may participate in incubation and chick rearing, depending on the species.

Conservation status varies among species. Many longspurs are governed by the availability of open grasslands; habitat loss and fragmentation have affected some populations more than others. They remain a subject of study for migration patterns and habitat requirements in grassland ecosystems.