Bobolink

Dolichonyx oryzivorus

HOW TO IDENTIFY:

* Length: 6 inches
* 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

Female and basic:

* 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
* Juvenile similar to basic

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.