Nest.—Of grasses, on the ground in fields, usually partially arched over. Three to five white eggs specked with brown (1.10 × .80).
Range.—N. A. east of the Plains and north to southern Canada; winters from Massachusetts and Illinois southward.
Sub-Species.—501.1. Western Meadowlark (neglecta). This race has the yellow on the throat extended on the sides; its song is much more brilliant and varied than the eastern bird. It is found from the Plains to the Pacific. 501c. Florida Meadowlark (argutula) is smaller and darker than the common.
AUDUBON ORIOLE
503. Icterus melanocephalus audubonii. 9½ inches
Within the United States, these large Orioles are found only in southern Texas. They are not uncommon there and are resident. Their notes are loud, mellow whistles like those of the other Orioles. Their nests are semi-pensile and usually placed in mesquite trees not more than ten or fifteen feet from the ground.
SCOTT ORIOLE
504. Icterus parisorum. 8 inches
These beautiful birds are found in southwestern United States, from California to western Texas.