Lark bunting
Calamospiza melanocorys
Identification Tips:
- Length: 6 inches
- Large, pale bill
- White wing patch
Adult male alternate:
- Black plumage
- Large wing patch
Adult female:
- Brownish head with pale supercilium
- Brown streaked back
- White underparts with heavy streaking
- Blackish wings with brown edges and white wing patch
- Basic and immature plumages similar to female
Similar species:
The male Lark Bunting is readily identifiable. Female-type plumage is
somewhat similar to various sparrows and female finches but has a white wing
patch and a large, pale bill.
Length and wingspan from: Robbins, C.S., Bruun, B., Zim, H.S., (1966). Birds of North America. New York: Western Publishing Company, Inc.