Date: 1/2/26 5:55 pm From: Ian MacGregor <00000489141846bd-dmarc-request...> Subject: Can Eastern Meadowlarks Have a Yellow Malar
I took a picture of a meadowlark which I thought was an Eastern, but when I looked at it, it had a yellow malar. All vocalizations from the small flock the bird was in were Eastern, according to Merlin. When Western's are mixed in with Eastern their smaller size is noticeable at close range. I didn't;t notice that with this bird, nor did I notice less white in the tail.
I've attached a picture. I ended up reporting the bird as Eastern/Western Meadowlark sp.
The guides say malar color is diagnostic during breeding season. I assume during the winter that some Western's may not show yellow molars, and not that Eatern's may acquire them.
