The Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) and the Eastern Meadowlark (Sturnella magna) are two closely related species of meadowlarks found in North America. Though they look very similar in appearance, their songs are noticeably different. The melodious songs of both species are a quintessential part of the countryside in their respective ranges. However, telling the two species apart by song alone can be tricky for casual birders.
Western Meadowlark Song
The Western Meadowlark has a more complex and extensive song than the Eastern Meadowlark. Its most common song is a long, flute-like series that starts with a few clear whistles followed by a jumble of chortles, warbles, and gurgles. The song typically lasts about 5 seconds and ends with a descending scale.
Western Meadowlark songs have great carrying power and can be heard from a quarter mile away on open prairies or grasslands. Males sing persistently from fence posts and other perches to mark their territories or attract mates. The Western Meadowlark’s characteristic song is described as a high, plaintive whistle that descends slightly and ends with a warbled trill.
Here are some key features that distinguish the Western Meadowlark’s song:
– Starts with about 2 to 5 whistled notes
– Clear intro followed by jumbled, warbled notes
– Song length averages about 5 seconds
– Ends with a gurgling descending scale
– Carries far, up to a quarter mile
– Overall complex and extensive song
Eastern Meadowlark Song
The Eastern Meadowlark has a simpler, shorter, more whistled song compared to the Western Meadowlark. Its most typical song starts with a couple clear, whistled notes followed by a short, sweet trill. The Eastern Meadowlark’s song is only about 2 seconds long on average.
The Eastern Meadowlark’s whistles are rich and mellow, though not as loud and carrying as the Western’s. Males sing from fence posts and small trees to declare their territories and attract potential mates. The Eastern Meadowlark’s song can be described as a series of whistled notes ending in a rapid, high-pitched trill.
Here are the key features that characterize the Eastern Meadowlark’s song:
– Starts with 2 to 4 clear, whistled notes
– Short trilled or gurgling ending
– Song length about 2 seconds
– Overall simpler song structure
– Whistled quality more prominent
– Does not carry as far, up to 1/8 mile
– Lacks complexities of Western’s song
Side-by-Side Song Comparison
Here is a summary comparing the main elements of Western vs. Eastern Meadowlark songs:
| Song Feature | Western Meadowlark | Eastern Meadowlark |
|---|---|---|
| First notes | 2 to 5 clear whistles | 2 to 4 clear whistles |
| Middle section | Jumbled, warbled notes | Short trill | Ending | Descending gurgle | Rapid trill |
| Length | About 5 seconds | About 2 seconds |
| Song complexity | Complex and variable | Simple and consistent |
| Carrying distance | Up to 1/4 mile | Up to 1/8 mile |
As you can see, the Western Meadowlark’s song is longer, more complex, and carries much farther than the Eastern Meadowlark’s. The Eastern’s song is shorter, simpler, and more whistle-like. Learning to distinguish these key differences by ear takes some practice, but it is a useful skill for birders to tell these otherwise similar-looking meadowlarks apart.
Other Identification Tips
While song is the most reliable way to differentiate these species, there are a few other subtle differences in appearance and behavior:
– Plumage: The Western has brighter yellow underparts compared to the paler yellow of the Eastern. The Eastern also has a thinner bill and paler cheeks.
– Range: Western Meadowlarks live west of the Great Plains states. Eastern Meadowlarks occur east of the Great Plains. Their ranges overlap in the central Plains.
– Habitat: Westerns occupy more open, drier grasslands and prairies. Easterns prefer moister habitat like meadows, farmland, and marsh edges.
– Migration: Easterns are more migratory compared to the mostly resident Westerns.
So in summary, the Western Meadowlark’s complex, flute-like song contrasts with the simpler, more whistled song of the Eastern Meadowlark. With some practice, birders can learn to distinguish these two species reliably by song alone. Paying attention to subtle plumage and behavioral differences helps confirm identification.
Conclusion
The songs of the Western and Eastern Meadowlarks are quintessential sounds of the grasslands and countryside of North America. Though they sound similar at first, their songs differ noticeably in length, structure, clarity, and carrying power. The Western Meadowlark’s song is a longer, more intricate series with a warbled, gurgling quality. The Eastern Meadowlark’s song is a shorter, simpler, more whistle-like sequence. Learning to recognize these key differences allows birders to differentiate these otherwise very similar-looking species. With a little practice, birders can confidently identify meadowlarks based on vocalizations alone, without the need for visual confirmation. So next time you hear a meadowlark singing, listen closely to pick up on the nuances of its song to tell whether it is a Western or Eastern!
