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 hay-lands in to orchards and vineyards
Incidental mortality from agricultural operations that destroy nests
Habitat fragmentation
Pesticide use

You Can Help!

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
Limit pesticides and use more organic agricultural practices