Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta), a Special Concern species, is typically found in open landscapes such as pastures and hay fields, grasslands, prairies, and meadows where there is a mix of short to medium-tall grasses. Western Meadowlarks can occur in the same habitats as the nearly identical Eastern Meadowlarks and can be distinguished by its song. This species has suffered a significant population decline over the past several decades, likely due to loss of habitat caused by fragmentation, land use conversion, and succession from grasslands to brush or forests. The recommended avoidance period is April 25 - July 30.
