Where does the Eastern Meadowlark live?
Sturnella magna
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Open the appThe Eastern Meadowlark lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.
Biomes
Temperate grasslands, prairies, savannas, agricultural fields (hayfields, pastures), open woodlands with grassy understories, and coastal prairies.
Geographic range
Eastern North America, extending from southeastern Canada south through the eastern and central United States, Mexico, Central America, and into northern South America (Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and northern Brazil).
Preferred environments
Open, grassy habitats with scattered shrubs or fence posts for perching. They prefer areas with dense, tall grasses for nesting and foraging, avoiding heavily forested or urbanized areas.
Elevation range
Primarily found in lowlands and plains, typically from sea level up to approximately 2,000 meters (6,500 feet), though occasionally higher in some parts of its range.
Where to look
Grasslands and Prairies
Extensive native grasslands and restored prairies are prime habitats. Look for them in areas with tall, dense grasses.
Agricultural Fields
Hayfields, pastures, and fallow fields are frequently used, especially those with minimal disturbance. Avoid heavily tilled or monoculture fields.
Open Woodlands/Savannas
Areas with scattered trees and a grassy understory can also host meadowlarks, particularly where the grass is allowed to grow tall.
Field tips
- Listen for the song. The Eastern Meadowlark's song is very distinctive and often given from a prominent perch, making it easier to locate the bird even before seeing it.
- Scan prominent perches. Males frequently sing from fence posts, utility wires, or tall weeds within their territory. Use binoculars to scan these spots.
- Walk slowly through grasslands. Meadowlarks are often well-camouflaged on the ground. Walking slowly through suitable habitat may flush them, allowing you to see their distinctive flight and white outer tail feathers.
- Look for movement on the ground. They forage by walking and running through grass. Look for subtle movements in the vegetation.
- Visit during breeding season. During spring and early summer, males are most vocal and conspicuous as they establish and defend territories.
Migration
Northern populations are migratory, moving south for the winter. Southern populations are largely resident. Migratory birds typically move from September to November and return from March to May. They undertake relatively short-distance migrations.
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