Lark Bunting

18 cm (7") Common. Central North America from Southern Canada to northern Texas. Prairies, sagebrush. State bird for Colorado.

Gregarious, often seen in sparrow flocks in migration and winter. A stocky bird with a short tail.

Male: all black except for a large white wing patch and some white in the tail. Similar male Bobolink has white on the upper body and not the wings.

Female, Immature and Winter Male: sparrow-like. Resembles female House Finch. Streaked grayish-brown upperparts. Light or buffy below with brown streaks. Winter Male retains black chin and throat area.

Song: varied whistles and trills; distinctive soft "hoo-ee" call.

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