adult; no sexual dimorphism (California, USA; 2007-01-03)


Western Meadowlark
Sturnella neglecta

Native Range: North America and Middle America

Notes: the western counterpart in the USA of the Eastern Meadowlark, the two species best distinguished by song; prefers grassy, open habitats where it nests and forages on the ground; chunky body shape; perches on prominent posts from which male sings a beautiful melodious song.

dorsal view showing camoflaged upperparts (California, USA; 2006-11-12)
ventral view showing black V on yellow breast (California, USA; 2006-11-12)

shows white outer tail feathers in flight (California, USA; 2007-10-14)
long pointed bill, stubby tail (California, USA; 2006-11-12)

beige eyebrow stripe (California, USA; 2006-12-03)
singing male (California, USA; 2010-05-31)

posing (Hawaii, USA; 2007-04-01)