Bird species profile
Long-tailed Meadowlark
Leistes loyca
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Icteridae
About the species
The Long-tailed Meadowlark is a medium-sized songbird native to southern South America, especially Patagonia. Males are notable for their vivid scarlet chest and throat, contrasting with brownish upperparts and a long tail. Females are duller, with streaked brown plumage and a less prominent red patch. These birds are often seen perched on fence posts or foraging on the ground in open grasslands. Their clear, flute-like song is a familiar sound across the Patagonian landscape. The species is territorial during the breeding season, with males singing to defend their area. Nests are built on the ground, hidden among grasses. The Long-tailed Meadowlark is not considered threatened and adapts well to modified habitats, including pastures and agricultural fields.
Habitat
Open grasslands, Patagonian steppe, pastures, and agricultural fields throughout southern South America.
Foraging
Feeds mainly on insects and seeds, foraging on the ground by walking and probing among grasses.
