Bird Description

Fairly common breeder on open prairie. In winter forms tight, sometimes large, flocks, often in agricultural areas. Very rare in E. Commonly seen sitting on fences. ?s sing in display flight. Song: mockingbird-like batches of trills and rattles. ID: Distinctively large and big-bellied. Head is blocky and with a large conical bill. Large white wing patches in flight. Ad br ?: solid black-and-white plumage in summer, But a patchwork of brown and black spring and fall. Nonbr: ?-like with black primaries and darker throat/face. ?: brown, usually with white throat.