Heather

My first Western Meadowlark showing its bold black "V" on its yellow breast in the grassy fields was near Boulder, Colorado. This one is from Turri Road in Los Osos, California in the rolling pastures where Black Angus cattle roam. I did read that it may flock with other blackbirds. Some of those seen were feeding near the feet of the cattle on the other side of the road. During the spring mornings the lovely melodious songs are frequent. On an overcast windy late afternoon it was fairly quiet. I read that it feeds mainly on insects and caterpillars, with seeds and berries later on in the season. It hides a well constructed nest in a depression possibly a hoof print  which can be deepened a bit with its bill and covered with grasses that make a waterproof roof. Often other grasses overhang the nest for camouflage.