Western Meadowlark or Red-Winged Blackbird?
Here's how to tell the difference
Western Meadowlark
Red-Winged Blackbird
Western Meadowlark
Sturnella neglecta
General appearance
The western meadowlark is approximately 8 1/2-11 inches (22-28 cm) in size. It is the size of a Robin. Its distinctive features include a black pattern forming a 'V' on its yellow breast, which is partly veiled in fall. The bird also has white outer tail feathers, which are particularly visible upon takeoff and landing. Its wings are rounded in shape and it possesses a rounded, short, square-tipped tail.
Male vs female
There is no significant difference in appearance between the male and female western meadowlark, making it difficult to distinguish between the two genders.
Juvenile
Juvenile western meadowlarks resemble the adult birds but their plumage is generally less vibrant. The juveniles' yellow coloration on the breast area might be slightly muted in comparison to the adults.
Size
7.5 - 9.1 in/3.1 - 4.1 oz
There's more to learn about Western Meadowlark
View full detailsRed-Winged Blackbird
Agelaius phoeniceus
General appearance
The Red-winged Blackbird's general size ranges between 7 to 9 1/2 inches (18-24 cm). Its wings are broad and rounded with a rounded, square-tipped tail. With coloration varying from black, brown, orange, red to yellow, these birds are about the size of a Robin.
Male vs female
Male Red-winged blackbirds are noticeable with shoulder patches that may be either evident, particularly in song display, or mostly concealed by body feathers. These patches are typically bordered yellow, but in central California, these can be entirely red. Females, on the other hand, present very differently. They display streaky brown coloration with a buff eyebrow.
Juvenile
Younger red-winged blackbirds, like the females, appear streaky brown. They resemble sparrows but possess different behavior aids, darker lower belly, and a spikier bill distinguishing them from the common sparrows. With age and seasonal variations, their coloration and physical traits progress and develop into that of respective adult males and females.
Size
6.3 - 9.8 in/1.1 - 2.6 oz
There's more to learn about Red-Winged Blackbird
View full detailsHow to tell the Western Meadowlark from the Red-Winged Blackbird
Visual differences
The Western Meadowlark is slightly larger than the Red-winged Blackbird, measuring 8.5-11 inches versus 7-9.5 inches. Meadowlarks feature a distinct black 'V' on a yellow breast, white outer tail feathers, and rounded wings. In contrast, male Red-winged Blackbirds are predominantly black with red and yellow shoulder patches, while females are streaky brown with a buff eyebrow. Both birds share a rounded tail, but Meadowlarks display a distinctive bright yellow plumage pattern compared to the Red-winged Blackbird's darker coloration, notably in males.
Key differences and behavior
The Western Meadowlark and Red-Winged Blackbird exhibit notable behavioral and ecological differences. Meadowlarks typically inhabit open grasslands and are known for their intricate ground nests and "gaping" feeding technique, focusing on insects and seeds. In contrast, Red-Winged Blackbirds favor marshes and become quite territorial during breeding, even confronting larger animals. They gather in massive flocks during winter. While both species have polygamous males, meadowlarks perform courtship on the ground with song and feather displays, whereas red-winged blackbirds use high perches and flight. The former rarely visit bird feeders, preferring fields, while the latter frequently feed at feeders, consuming a variety of seeds and grains. Both species thrive in diverse habitats, though meadowlarks prefer grassland while red-winged blackbirds favor wetlands.
Still not sure? Here are more lookalikes!
Western Meadowlark vs Yellow-Headed Blackbird
Red-Winged Blackbird vs Tricolored Blackbird
Western Meadowlark vs [Select a bird]
[Select a bird]
Pick a bird to compare
Red-Winged Blackbird vs [Select a bird]
[Select a bird]
Pick a bird to compare