Chihuahuan meadowlark, also known as Lilian's meadowlark, is a bird in the family Icteridae. It is found in northern Mexico and the southwestern portion of the United States. It was formerly usually treated as a subspecies of the eastern meadowlark.
Region
Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico
Typical Environment
Occurs in arid and semi-arid grasslands, desert prairies, and open rangelands with scattered shrubs such as mesquite and yucca. It frequents pastures, fallow fields, and roadside grass strips, especially where native grasses remain. Nests are placed on the ground, well-hidden in dense grass tussocks or under overhanging vegetation. It generally avoids dense woodlands and highly urbanized areas.
Altitude Range
600–2000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as Lilian's meadowlark, this species was long treated as a subspecies of the eastern meadowlark before being elevated to full species. Its song is clearer and higher-pitched than that of the eastern meadowlark, aiding identification where ranges approach. It favors open desert grasslands where it nests on the ground beneath clumps of grass.
Temperament
territorial during breeding, more social in winter
Flight Pattern
low, undulating flight with short rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Pairs defend territories in the breeding season, with males singing from fence posts, shrubs, or other elevated perches. Nests are domed or partially covered cups on the ground built by the female, often with a side entrance. Outside the breeding season, small flocks may form to forage in open fields.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Delivers clear, sweet, whistled phrases that are purer and higher-pitched than the eastern meadowlark’s song. Calls include sharp, metallic chips and short chatters used in contact and alarm. Songs carry well across open grasslands, especially at dawn and dusk.
Plumage
Streaked brown and black upperparts with a contrasting bright yellow throat and belly crossed by a bold black V on the chest. White outer tail feathers are conspicuous in flight, and the face pattern is relatively pale with fine streaking. The underparts show lighter spotting on the flanks compared to similar meadowlarks.
Diet
Primarily consumes insects such as grasshoppers, crickets, beetles, and caterpillars, supplemented by spiders and other small invertebrates. In cooler months it adds seeds and grains, and occasionally small fruits. It forages mostly on the ground, probing soil and thatch and gleaning prey from low vegetation.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open grasslands, grazed pastures, and the margins of agricultural fields where vegetation is low to moderately tall. Often forages along fencelines, road edges, and patches of native bunchgrasses that provide both cover and prey.
