There are two birds with similar names that are be found in open habitats throughout the SF Bay Area. For example, one place you can see and hear both birds is the grasslands areas of the Máyyan ‘Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve.
The western meadowlark and horned lark look similar but belong to entirely different bird families and have distinct behaviors, songs, and appearances.
Western meadowlark
The western meadowlark, despite the name, is not a lark but a member of the blackbird family. The western meadow lark is larger than the horned lark, with a bright yellow chest marked by a distinctive black “V.” From behind, its brown-and-white streaked back helps it blend in with dry grasses and shrubs.
Western meadowlark quick ID tips:
- Size: larger, more robust body
- Behavior: often sings from elevated spots, more visible than horned larks
- Markings: bright yellow chest with black “V”; duller back with heavy streaks
- Sound: melodious, whistling song—very different from a horned lark’s call
Horned lark
Horned larks are small songbirds with pale undersides and a bold black-and-yellow face pattern. Males sport tiny feather tufts on their heads that look like “horns,” especially visible when they’re agitated or displaying.
Horned lark quick ID tips:
- Size: smaller and more delicate than a meadowlark
- Behavior: stays low to the ground, runs instead of hops
- Markings: black “mask” and “bib,” with yellow on the face (in most subspecies)
- Sound: high-pitched, tinkling song and calls
