Montana, the “Treasure State,” is renowned for its vast landscapes, picturesque mountain ranges, and unique heritage. Not only does the state boast a rich historical heritage and stunning geographical features, but it also has a variety of symbols that represent its identity and values. Among these is Montana’s state bird, the Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta), a choice that reflects the state’s respect for nature and its vibrant avian life.
Key Takeaways
- The official state bird of Montana is the Western Meadowlark, chosen by Montana’s school children in 1931.
- The Western Meadowlark is known for its beautiful appearance and melodious song.
- Montana is home to approximately 450 different bird species, including iconic birds like the Bald Eagle and Mountain Bluebird.
- The rarest bird in Montana is the Piping Plover, which is federally threatened due to habitat loss and disturbance from human activities.
The Western Meadowlark: Montana’s State Bird
Montana’s State bird, the Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) is a medium-sized songbird, which was designated as the state symbol in 1931 after Montana schoolchildren voted it as their favorite bird.
The Western Meadowlark is a distinctive bird thanks to its bright yellow underparts and black V-shaped band across its chest. It can be found in open grasslands across the western and central United States.
Quick Facts About the Western Meadowlark
- Scientific Name: Sturnella neglecta
- Description: Medium-sized songbird with bright yellow underparts, white outer tail feathers, and black V-shaped band on chest. Brown upperparts with black and white spotting.
- Size: About 8-10 inches in length
- Habitat: Grasslands, meadows, prairies, open fields
- Diet: Insects, spiders, snails, seeds
- Call: Distinctive flute-like song
- Conservation Status: Least Concern
Naming the Western Meadowlark as State Bird
In 1931, Montana schoolchildren participated in a vote to select the state bird. The Western Meadowlark emerged as the clear winner. On March 14, 1931, the state legislature officially designated the Western Meadowlark as the Montana state bird.
Prior to the vote, Montana did not have an official state bird. The Western Meadowlark was likely a popular choice thanks to its prevalence in the grasslands and meadows of Big Sky Country. Its loud, flute-like song brightens up the open spaces of Montana.
The Western Meadowlark is also the state bird of six other U.S. states: Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oregon, Wyoming, and Nebraska. However, Montana has the distinction of being the first state to officially adopt the Western Meadowlark.
Identification and Description
The Western Meadowlark is a medium-sized blackbird measuring around 8-10 inches in length. It has a plump body shape and short tail.
Some key identification features include:
- Bright yellow underparts – The breast and belly are vivid yellow. This is the most noticeable field mark.
- Black V-shaped band on chest – The black band helps distinguish the Western Meadowlark from the closely related Eastern Meadowlark.
- White outer tail feathers – These white feathers are visible during flight.
- Brown upperparts – The back and wings are mottled brown with black and white spotting.
- Yellow “eyebrow” – There is a thin yellow stripe above the eye.
- Conical bill – The bill is mostly yellow with a gray tip.
The coloring provides good camouflage when the bird is sitting in dry grass. In flight, the bright yellow underparts and white tail feathers become visible.
Males and females have similar plumage. Juveniles are more pale below and less vividly marked.
Habitat and Behavior
The Western Meadowlark inhabits open grassy areas including meadows, prairies, fields, and grasslands. It is frequently seen perched on fence posts or low perches surveying its domain.
In Montana, it can be found statewide in appropriate habitat. The highest densities occur in the grasslands and plains of the eastern part of the state.
These birds are often seen singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Males sing their flute-like song from an elevated perch. In winter, they may form larger flocks.
The Western Meadowlark spends much of its time walking along the ground foraging for food. Its diet consists mainly of insects, spiders, snails, and seeds. It probes the ground and vegetation with its conical bill searching for prey.
Breeding and Nesting
The breeding season runs from late April through July. Males arrive first to establish breeding territories which they defend vigorously with song and aggressive displays.
Nests are built on the ground concealed in dense vegetation. The female constructs the nest out of grasses and lines it with softer material like animal hair. She lays 3-6 eggs which hatch after 13-15 days.
Both parents help feed and care for the young. The nestlings leave the nest at around 10-12 days old but remain dependent on the parents for another couple weeks. Many birds raise two broods per season.
Migration Patterns of Western Meadowlark
Montana lies along the northern edge of the Western Meadowlark’s breeding range. Northern populations are migratory while birds further south may remain year-round residents.
Many Montana meadowlarks migrate south in winter, traveling to southern states like Texas or even Mexico. Not all birds migrate, however. Some remain through the winter in Montana, congregating in large flocks in suitable habitat.
Northward migration begins in late April or early May. Males arrive first to claim territories. They are followed shortly after by females. Fall migration occurs September through November.
Conservation Status of Western Meadowlark
The Western Meadowlark has a large range and stable population. Its numbers are estimated around 40 million. For these reasons, it is classified as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
However, Breeding Bird Survey data does show a population decline of about 2% per year in recent decades. Loss of grassland habitat is likely responsible for the decline. Continued habitat conservation efforts are important for maintaining healthy meadowlark populations.
In Montana, the Western Meadowlark remains a common and widespread breeding bird. It serves as an indicator of the health of the state’s prairies and grassland habitats. Maintaining large open spaces benefits meadowlarks as well as other grassland-dependent wildlife.
Cultural Importance and Symbolism
The Western Meadowlark’s beautiful song and bright plumage make it a favorite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Its melody carries across the fields and prairies, announcing the arrival of spring.
Beyond its natural history appeal, the Western Meadowlark holds special meaning in Montana as the official state symbol. Schoolchildren selected it because they were drawn to its pleasant song and appearance.
The meadowlark represents the spirit and values of the state – freedom, natural beauty, and wildlife. Its image graces the Montana quarter, state seal, and other symbols. Its song serves as a soundtrack for the sweeping Montana landscape.
7 Amazing Facts about the Western Meadowlark
Let’s take a look at some amazing facts about the Western Meadowlark:
- The Western Meadowlark has a beautiful, flute-like song that rings out across open fields and grasslands. Males sing to attract mates and defend territories.
- They got their name because early settlers thought their song sounded similar to the songs of meadowlarks in the Eastern US. However, they are actually members of the blackbird family.
- Western Meadowlarks can sing two different songs – one is used for courtship and mating while the other is used to identify territory boundaries to other males.
- These birds feed mostly on the ground, walking through grasslands and fields while probing the soil for insects with their long bills. Their diet consists of beetles, ants, caterpillars, and other insects.
- Nests are built on the ground, woven into surrounding vegetation. The nests have a unique domed grass roof over the top with an entrance on the side.
- Western Meadowlarks migrate in the northern parts of their range, including Montana. Some birds fly as far south as Mexico for the winter.
- Their yellow breast with black V-shaped band makes them easily identifiable. They also have a yellow stripe above the eye and white outer tail feathers.
Final Thoughts on the state bird of Montana
With its vibrant yellow plumage and flute-like song, the Western Meadowlark is a fitting representative for the state of Montana. This distinctive grassland songbird was designated the state bird in 1931 after Montana schoolchildren voted it their favorite. It is a familiar sight and sound across the fields and prairies where it breeds and nests. The meadowlark remains a cherished state symbol and an integral part of Montana’s natural heritage.
FAQs
Why was the Western Meadowlark chosen as the state bird?
The Western Meadowlark was likely chosen due to its prevalence and familiarity across the grasslands and prairies of Montana. Schoolchildren appreciated its bright yellow plumage and melodious song.
Where can the Western Meadowlark be found in Montana?
Western Meadowlarks can be found statewide in appropriate habitat such as grasslands, meadows, prairies, pastures, and agricultural fields. Highest densities occur in eastern Montana.
What does the Western Meadowlark eat?
Western Meadowlarks mainly eat insects, spiders, snails and seeds. They are often seen foraging on the ground probing with its bill.
When do Western Meadowlarks migrate in Montana?
Some western meadowlarks migrate south in winter while others overwinter in Montana. Spring migration is April-May, fall migration September-November.
What is the conservation status of the Western Meadowlark?
The Western Meadowlarks are classified as Least Concern. They are abundant and widespread, but declining slightly in recent decades. Loss of grassland habitat is a threat.