Western Meadowlark perched among purple henbit flowers in a field.

Western Meadowlark Among the Henbit Flowers

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I recently spent some time at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. While driving the auto tour road, I spotted a beautiful Western Meadowlark perched right in a field of purple flowers.

Western Meadowlark perched among purple henbit flowers in a field.
A Western Meadowlark stands out against a sea of purple henbit at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge.

I have wanted a shot like this for a long time. These birds look stunning against the colorful henbit that blooms this time of year. My timing was lucky because the farmers were just about to prep these fields for planting.

Wildlife Notes

Identifying meadowlarks can be tricky since Eastern and Western species look so similar. I originally thought this was an Eastern Meadowlark. After consulting with an expert, I learned it is actually a Western Meadowlark.

One key giveaway is the yellow feathers on the throat. On a Western Meadowlark, that yellow color extends up into the malar area, or the “mustache” part of the face. Eastern Meadowlarks typically have white in that spot.

These birds love open fields and grasslands. Interestingly, Western Meadowlarks seem to have a particular fondness for henbit. You can often find them foraging for insects and seeds among these low-growing purple flowers.

Photography Notes

I captured this image from the seat of my pickup truck. This method works well at Sequoyah because the birds are used to vehicles. I used a beanbag draped over the open window to keep my camera steady.

A pickup truck drove by just as I was getting ready. I thought the bird might fly off, but it stayed long enough for me to get the shot. I kept my shutter speed high to ensure the bird remained sharp if it decided to move suddenly.

Gear Used:

  • Camera: Canon EOS R7
  • Lens: Canon RF 100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

Technical:

  • Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
  • Date and Time Taken: March 17, 2023 (09:15 A. M.)
  • Exposure Mode: Manual
  • Aperture: f8
  • Shutter speed: 1/1600
  • ISO: 640 (Auto)
  • Focal Length: 500 mm

I prefer using the 100-500mm lens for these types of shots. It gives me the reach I need without being too heavy to maneuver inside the cab of my truck.

I am glad I caught this moment before the flowers were gone for the season. It is always a treat to see these birds singing from the fields.