Chihuahuan Meadowlark
Sturnella lilianae
The Chihuahuan meadowlark is about 25 cm (9.8 in) long. It weighs 77 to 130 g (2.7 to 4.6 oz); males are larger than females. The sexes have the same plumage. Adults of the nominate subspecies have a dark brown crown with a paler stripe through its middle. They have a supercilium that is dark yellow from the bill to the eye and whitish beyond it and a dark line from the eye to the nape on an otherwise whitish face. Their upperparts are brown with blackish barring and with white edges on the back and scapular feathers. Voice: The male Chihuahuan meadowlark's primary song is "3-5 descending whistles, sometimes started with a short low frequency (2-3 kHz) note". Both sexes give a "single, explosive" dzert call; when excited they chatter.
ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Western Meadowlark
Sturnella neglecta
Western meadowlark adults have yellow underparts with a black "V" on the breast and white flanks streaked with black. Their upper parts are mostly brown, but also have black streaks. These birds have long, pointed bills and their heads are striped with light brown and black bands. Measurements: Length: 16–26 cm (6.3–10.2 in) Wingspan: 41 cm (16 in) Weight: 89–115 g (3.1–4.1 oz) These birds have a flute-like warbled song. These calls contrast with the simple, whistled call of the eastern meadowlark.
ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Where you might meet both
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Play today's Daily BirdPhotos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Chihuahuan Meadowlark and Western Meadowlark.