Eastern Meadowlark
Populations of old
field birds have dwindled over the last few decades as small farms were
turned into subdivisions or were merged into huge agricultural
operations. In either case, the Eastern Meadowlark and other
typical residents of old fields lost their homes. If you keep
your eyes peeled as you walk through the field south of the Frenchman’s Settlement,
though, you are likely to catch a glimpse of the brilliant yellow
breasts and melodic songs of Eastern Meadowlarks.
The future of
the meadowlark does not have to be grim. Many farmers are
beginning to operate with old field birds in mind, realizing that they
can make their fields into better habitat for these birds while only
reducing agricultural yields marginally. Hedgerows of trees are
left in place along fencelines, providing a spot for animals to hide
from predators, and small sections of a hayfield are left unmowed each
year to provide breeding habitat. Even a simple matter of timing
can make a difference. Mowing pastures and other fields later
than usual --- around early August --- allows meadowlark chicks to
fledge and fly away rather than being crushed in their nests. The
field at the top of Sugar Hill is mowed infrequently enough to keep the
meadowlarks regaling us with their clear whistles.
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