Image via Macaulay Library
Western Meadowlark
- Scientific name
- Sturnella neglecta
- Family
- Icteridae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Grassland
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Notched
Where it came from
The Western Meadowlark, identified scientifically as Sturnella neglecta, was formally described by John James Audubon in 1844. The species was named 'neglecta' because it had long been overlooked by earlier explorers, who assumed it was identical to the Eastern Meadowlark due to their similar plumage. It is primarily found across the western half of North America, flourishing in open grasslands, prairies, and meadows.
The bird is distinguished by its vibrant yellow breast with a black V-shaped collar and its complex, melodic song. Its physical design—featuring pointed wings and a notched tail—is an evolutionary adaptation for life in expansive, open terrain. It remains a celebrated icon of the American West, serving as the official state bird for six different states, reflecting its deep cultural integration into the identity of the region.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Western Meadowlark
Western Meadowlark is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Western Meadowlark on collecto.rs?
Western Meadowlark doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Western Meadowlark?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Western Meadowlark catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Western Meadowlark is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
