Bobolink

Dolichonyx oryzivorus

Status

Threatened

Description

The Bobolink is a medium-sized songbird. Males are black below and lighter above, while females are light beige and brown streaked and could be mistaken for some species of sparrow. They have a cone shaped bill, rigid, sharply pointed tail feathers and long hind toenails.

Habitat

The Bobolink occurs in various grassland habitats and abandoned fields dominated by tall grasses. They usually nest in meadows, hay fields or pastures dominated by a variety of species.

Threats

-Loss of grassland habitat due to human development
-Conversion of range-lands and hayfields in to orchards and vineyards
-Death from agricultural operations that destroy nests
-Habitat fragmentation
-Pesticide use

You Can Help!

-Conserve and protect wildlife habitat
-Retain tall growing grasslands, pastures and meadows
-Limit agricultural operations and cutting hay-fields during breeding season (early summer)
-Protect known nest sites from human disturbance
-Avoid pesticide use whenever possible