Bobolink
Dolichonyx oryzivorus
Identification Tips:
- Short, conical bill
- Frequents open habitats
- Often found in large flocks in migration
Adult male alternate:
- Black head, underparts, back, wings and tail
- Yellow nape
- White scapulars and rump
- Plumage held in Spring and Summer
Adult female, male basic, juvenile:
- Buff and black head stripes
- Buff underparts with black streaking on flanks
- Buff upperparts with black streaks on back
- Dark wings and tail with pale edging
Similar species:
The male Bobolink is similar to the male Lark Bunting but has a yellow
nape, white rump, and lacks a white wing patch. The female Bobolink is
similar to the Grasshopper Sparrow but is larger and has streaked flanks.
Female Red-winged Blackbird has a streaked breast.