Countdown To Spring - Day Four

By Kimberly J. Epp

The Western Meadowlark arrives back to our wetland areas in early Spring. The male has the most beautiful Spring song. The male sings to defend his nesting territory. One male may have more than one mate. During courtship, the male faces the female, puffs out his chest feathers, points his bill straight back (which shows off the black "V" on his chest), spreads his tail widely, and flicks his wings.

Photo: Male Western Meadowlark singing (photo credit Santisouk Photography).

Three to seven eggs are laid, heavily spotted with shades of brown and purple. The incubation of the eggs is done by the female, which lasts about 13 to 15 days. Both parents feed the nestlings, but the female plays a larger role in the feeding. The young can leave the nest at about 12 days, but are still fed by both parents for at least another two weeks until they are able to fly. These birds have two broods per year.

Look for Western Meadowlarks in areas like Buffalo Pound Provincial Park. You are almost always assured to see them beside the boardwalk, perching on the reeds.