Telling apart the Eastern and Western Meadowlarks can be tricky for birders. At a quick glance, these two songbirds look nearly identical. When seen well, however, there are subtle differences in plumage, song, and range that can help identify them. One of the best ways to distinguish these species is by carefully observing the pattern and coloration of their tails. Knowing what to look for when comparing Eastern vs. Western Meadowlark tails can make differentiating these birds much easier.
Eastern Meadowlark Tail
The Eastern Meadowlark is found across eastern North America. Its range stretches west to the Great Plains and central Texas. When observing the Eastern Meadowlark’s tail, pay attention to the following field marks:
Tail Shape
The Eastern Meadowlark’s tail is rounded at the end with a straight to slightly notched tip. The outer tail feathers are broadly white.
Tail Color Pattern
– The outer tail feathers are white with black tips and subterminal bands. The white bases are especially broad on the outermost feathers.
– The middle tail feathers are mostly blackish brown with irregular white outer edges and white tips.
– There is a clear demarcation between the black middle feathers and white outer feathers.
Undertail Coverts
The undertail coverts (the small feathers under the base of the tail) are solid buffy yellow.
Western Meadowlark Tail
The Western Meadowlark can be found across western North America from central Canada through Mexico. When comparing to the Eastern’s tail, look for these features:
Tail Shape
Similar to the Eastern, the Western Meadowlark has a rounded, straight-tipped tail. The outer feathers are also broadly white.
Tail Color Pattern
– The outer tail feathers have thinner white bases and more extensive black tips and subterminal bands compared to the Eastern.
– The middle feathers are dark brown but often show more white mottling along the edges.
– There is less contrast between the middle and outer tail feathers.
Undertail Coverts
The undertail coverts are boldly marked with black streaks and bars contrasting with a white background.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Here is a summary comparing the key differences between Eastern and Western Meadowlark tails:
| Field Mark | Eastern Meadowlark | Western Meadowlark |
|---|---|---|
| Outer tail feathers | Broad white bases | Narrower white bases |
| Middle tail feathers | Mostly solid blackish-brown | More white mottling |
| Contrast between middle and outer feathers | High contrast | More graduated transition |
| Undertail coverts | Solid buffy yellow | White with black streaks and bars |
Tips for Observing Meadowlark Tails
Here are some tips for getting a good look at a meadowlark’s tail in the field:
– Use binoculars or a spotting scope to get close-up views.
– Look for meadowlarks perched on fences, wires, or shrubs, which will display the tail spread open.
– When flushed, the tail will flare out, allowing you to see the color pattern.
– Carefully check undertail coverts as the bird flies away.
– With practice, you can even identify meadowlarks in flight by the tail shape and flash of white outer feathers.
– Be patient and observe individuals long enough to discern key features. Lighting can affect feather colors.
– Compare tail patterns among meadowlarks in the same area to appreciate subtle differences.
Other Differences Between Eastern and Western Meadowlarks
While the tail patterns are a great way to tell Eastern and Western Meadowlarks apart, there are some other subtle differences to note:
Plumage Colors
The Eastern Meadowlark generally shows richer, warmer brown upperparts, a brighter yellow throat and chest, and buffier flanks. The Western is duller overall with more gray to the upperparts.
Face Pattern
The Eastern has bolder black malar stripes (sideburns) and central crown stripes compared to the Western.
Songs and Calls
The melodious, flute-like songs of the two meadowlarks are quite distinct with practice. Calls also differ, with the Eastern’s being more nasal and buzzy.
Habitat
Eastern Meadowlarks favor open grasslands across most of eastern North America. Western Meadowlarks occupy drier prairie and plains in the west, including short-grass regions avoided by Eastern.
Conclusion
When differentiating between Eastern and Western Meadowlarks, carefully comparing the tail pattern remains one of the most reliable ways to identify these species. Focus on subtle features like the inner vs. outer feather color contrasts, amount of white mottling, and undertail covert markings. With practice, meadowlark identification will become much easier. Familiarizing yourself with the species’ songs, subtle plumage differences, and preferred habitats can also help clue you in to which meadowlark you are observing.
