Eastern Meadowlark

Summer is a great time to take a drive out to the country. Whether you visit historical sites or go shopping in Amish Country, keep a look-out for this beautiful bird. The clear, melodious whistles of the Eastern Meadowlark are a familiar and welcome sound across farms and grasslands in eastern North America. In all actuality, the Eastern Meadowlark is not a lark (family Alaudidae) but rather a member of the family Icteridae, along with blackbirds and orioles. It is called a “meadowlark” because it’s a bird of meadows and sings like the larks of Europe. You’ll find them in grasslands, pastures, as well as croplands, and golf courses. Often seen perched on a fence post, it will quickly dive into tall grass when approached. The Eastern Meadowlark primarily eats insects, especially grasshoppers and crickets, as well as insect larvae and grubs but will also eat seeds. Enjoy a summer drive and listen for the beautiful flute-like song of the the Eastern Meadowlark.

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