Where’s Wildlife · Bird Field Guide
Dolichonyx oryzivorus
Pronounced (approx.): doh-LIK-oh-niks or-ih-ZIV-or-us
A grassland singer whose breeding males wear a striking black underside, white back, and buff-colored nape. [1]
Select the main image to browse all 13 photographs.
NATIVE TO NORTH AMERICA
Watch above tall grass for a male singing from a stem or fluttering across the meadow. Brown-plumaged birds may remain low in cover. [1]
Use the range map for seasonal context and the observation map to explore reported sightings near you.
Listen for rhythm and tone, then compare what you hear with the bird’s appearance and habitat.
Female Red-winged Blackbirds are strongly streaked below. Compare the Bobolink’s buff coloring, head pattern, and short tail rather than relying on one marking. [1]
Photographs © Brian Woolman / Where’s Wildlife. Select any image to open the gallery.
Showing 8 of 13 photographs.
Females conceal the nest at the base of meadow plants. Adults gather seeds and invertebrates, while nestlings receive animal food. After breeding, family groups gather into flocks before migration. [2]
Bobolinks migrate between North American breeding areas and South American wintering grounds. [2]
Males lose their bold black-and-white breeding appearance and become buffy after breeding. [2]
A ground nest is easily overlooked in tall vegetation, making intact meadow habitat important. [2]
Explore reported observations and photographs on iNaturalist. Zoom to your area and use date filters to investigate seasonal sightings.
Reported sightings are not a complete range map. A lack of records does not necessarily mean the species is absent.
Choose a photograph and name three clues you can see. Compare another view to learn how angle, age, season, and lighting change the bird’s appearance.