ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Bobolink

 Bobolink

boblink
The blackbird family probably contains more individuals than any other bird family in Ohio, but includes only a few species. This group of medium-sized walking birds has very diverse coloration and habits. The bill is long and pointed; the tail is usually rounded.

Bobolinks are a species of concern in Ohio. This species is annually monitored by the North American Breeding Bird Survey. Like other grassland nesting birds, bobolink populations have declined in part due to mowing and haying of grassland habitat during the peak of the breeding season in June.


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Bobolink
Dolichonyx oryzivorus

At-a-Glance

• Peak Breeding Activity: May-June

 • Incubation: 10-13 days

• Clutch Size: 4-7 eggs

• Young Fledge: 10-14 days after hatching

• Typical Foods: primarily insects and seeds

• Ohio Status: Species of Concern 
Description
The spring male is unmistakable with his black breast, white back and rump, and yellow nape. He is Ohio's only bird that is dark below and light above. The fall male and female resemble large buffy sparrows with striped crowns and backs.

Habitat and Habits
The bobolink normally resides in grassy hayfields and pastures, clover/alfalfa hayfields, wet prairies, and the grassy margins of marshes. Fallow fields composed of grasses and weeds also provide suitable nesting habitats. Bobolinks are called ricebirds in the South where they eat large quantities of this grain. Their diet also includes insects and seeds. The pleasing song is composed of a rich, bubbling series of gurgling phrases, with each note given on a different pitch. The song is often given in flight.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Most bobolink nests are placed on the ground in dense grassy cover, although few are elevated 6-12 inches. The nest is a loose cup of grass and rootlets very well concealed on the ground. Nest construction is prevalent during May and June and flegdlings appear in June and July. The cream-colored eggs are spotted with brown, red, or purple. Bobolinks only raise one brood, but renesting attempts do occur.