Key Identification Features
- Members of this species reach a total length of 20 cm, and have a distinctive bobbing flight pattern similar to that of a woodpecker.
- It resembles the Forbes's blackbird, but can be distinguished by its slightly curved bill that features a distinct groove along the lower mandible.
- Adult eastern meadowlarks have yellow underparts with a distinct black V-shaped mark on the breast, and white flanks marked with black streaks.
- In nonbreeding plumage, eastern meadowlarks typically have more yellow-brown coloration on their flanks and more distinct striping on their heads.
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