ExploreBirds

Bobolink

Dolichonyx oryzivorus

The Bobolink is a small, colorful bird known for its cheerful song. It has a black back and a white belly, making it easy to spot in fields and meadows during the summer.

Habitat: Grasslands

Appearance

The Bobolink is a medium-sized songbird, famous for the breeding male's striking black body, white wing patches, and a bright yellow nape. Females and non-breeding males are streaky brown, resembling large sparrows, with a distinctive pointed tail.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyIcteridaeGenusDolichonyx
Bobolink
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Bobolink

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Bobolinks were once called 'skunk birds' due to the white markings on their black backs!

During migration, Bobolinks can gather in huge flocks, sometimes numbering in the thousands!

Male Bobolinks sing so much that their throat muscles can swell during breeding season!

Their scientific name 'oryzivorus' means 'rice eating', referring to their diet in winter.

Special abilities

Ability

Magnetic Compass

Bobolinks can navigate using Earth's magnetic field because it helps them find their way across vast distances during migration.

Ability

Singing Flight

Bobolinks have a bubbly, complex song that they often sing while in flight, which helps them attract mates and defend territory.

Ability

Camouflage Cloak

Bobolinks can change their plumage dramatically, losing their bright breeding colors to blend seamlessly into grassy winter habitats.

Measurements & details

Length
16-18 cm
Wingspan
25-32 cm
Weight
0.028-0.056 kg
Lifespan
2-5 years
Top Speed
60 km/h
Clutch Size
4-7
Incubation
10-14 days
Migration Distance
10000 km

Diet & Feeding

Bobolinks eat insects in summer and switch to seeds and grains for energy during migration.

Age differences: Young birds eat mostly insects for rapid growth, while adults consume more seeds seasonally.

Primary Foods

  • Grasshoppers
  • Caterpillars
  • Beetles
  • Grass Seeds
  • Oats
  • Rice

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

If you see a bird's nest, be sure to watch from a distance and not touch it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Bobolink?

16-18 cm

What is Bobolink's wingspan?

25-32 cm

How much does Bobolink weigh?

0.028-0.056 kg

How long does Bobolink live?

2-5 years

How fast can Bobolink move?

60 km/h

What does Bobolink eat?

Bobolinks eat insects in summer and switch to seeds and grains for energy during migration.

Where is Bobolink usually found?

Grasslands

How does Bobolink hunt?

Foraging

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