Humboldt State University Return to Grassland main page. Males are probably defending territories in March in many parts of California. Most Western Meadowlark territories have broken up by late July and August. Often partially covered by a roof or arch. However, males will sing from ground or from the tops of grass bunches if no taller structure is available.
Vegetation structure seems more important than a particular species of plant.
Often placed at the base of a plant and is generally well-concealed. Some nests may be in a shallow depression in ground. Vegetation structure seems more important than a particular species of plant. However, I could not find any published account of a parasitized nest in California. Management for Western Meadowlarks that provides the most bang for the buck should be concentrated in these four areas.