57 Western Meadowlark

• A group of Western Meadowlark are called a; Pod.
• We saw this bird on April 9th, and there is still 2 feet of snow on the level.  Poor thing, someone didn't tell it spring hasn't arrived here yet.  On the Canadian prairie and northern plains states they mark the arrival of spring with their pleasant flute like song.
• They are grassland birds.  They are the state bird of 7 different prairie states.  No wonder, they have one of the most beautiful flute like songs.  My wife Vicki says it is her favorite of all song birds.
• They need deep old grassland for nesting and safety. 
• The nest is made in deep grass with a grass woven roof on top.  Most males have two females in their territory that they mate with.  The female generally does most of the care.
• They eat bugs and grasshoppers.  When not available they eat seeds and berries.