Thick-billed Longspur

The Thick-billed Longspur, a small, ground-feeding avian member of the Calcariidae family, is the sole representative of the genus Rhynchophanes. This bird, native to North America, is distinguished by its robust cone-shaped bill and a body length of approximately 15 cm (5.9 in), with a wingspan reaching 28 cm (11 in) and an average weight around 25 g (0.88 oz).

Identification Tips

In the breeding season, the male Thick-billed Longspur sports a striking plumage with a white throat and underparts, a grey face and nape, and a black crown. Its back is streaked, shoulders rust-coloured, and the tail is white with a dark tip. Females, more subdued in colour, are predominantly grey with a paler bill and hints of rust on their median coverts and scapulars. Non-breeding males resemble females but have less streaking on the crown and more chestnut colouration. Juveniles, briefly observed in late summer, present a sandy appearance with streaked upper breasts and white bellies.

Habitat

The preferred breeding habitats of the Thick-billed Longspur are the semi-arid shortgrass steppes of the northwestern Great Plains states and southern Prairie Provinces, where perennial shortgrasses and cacti are prevalent.

Distribution

Historically, the breeding range of the Thick-billed Longspur extended south into Oklahoma and east into Minnesota and Manitoba, but this range has since contracted. During the non-breeding season, these birds can be found from southern Oklahoma to Texas and Northern Mexico, favouring open habitats with sparse vegetation.

Behaviour

The male's breeding display includes a distinctive tinkling song, often performed in flight, accompanied by a dry rattle call. Nests are nestled in shallow ground depressions, with both parents participating in feeding the fledglings, which leave the nest before fully mastering flight. Outside of breeding, these longspurs form flocks, occasionally mixing with species like the Lapland Longspur and Horned Lark.

Song & Calls

The male Thick-billed Longspur's song is a melodious tinkling, often delivered in flight, while its calls include a characteristic dry rattle.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Thick-billed Longspur consists of seeds and insects, aligning with its ground-feeding habits.

Conservation Status

The Thick-billed Longspur is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, there has been a noted decline in both numbers and range since the early 1900s, primarily attributed to habitat loss.