Longspur Lapland or McCown?

[okbirder]

This picture was taken recently in western Oklahoma. The rusty shoulder patch makes me think McCown, but I am not sure. 

[Avery]

It's a Thick-billed Longspur (formerly McCown's). That rusty shoulder patch, or the median coverts, is diagnostic, as well as the plain face and lack of streaking on the flanks. Cool bird! I've only ever seen Lapland, which can have a similar rusty coloration to the greater coverts, but is much streakier.

Edited January 17, 2021 by Avery

[okbirder]

Thanks Avery. I was hoping it was a Thick-billed.

 

[Jefferson Shank]

Yes, this is a Thick-billed Longspur (McCown's)

[AlexHenry]

You must be better than an “ok” birder if you’re seeing a Thick-billed Longspur ?

[okbirder]

Now I need to spot a Smith’s to complete the Longspurs.

[Tony Leukering]

8 hours ago, Avery said:

It's a Thick-billed Longspur (formerly McCown's).

McCown's Longspur is the species name. BTW, Lapland's are streaked below and are notably darker birds.

ML298465021 Lapland Longspur Macaulay Library

ML298463071 Lapland Longspur Macaulay Library

ML298636911 Lapland Longspur Macaulay Library

[Avery]

1 hour ago, Tony Leukering said:

McCown's Longspur is the species name.

Huh. I see that eBird has it as McCown's, and yet the AOS has changed the name as of August 7, 2020.

Edited January 18, 2021 by Avery

[Connor Cochrane]

59 minutes ago, Avery said:

Huh. I see that eBird has it as McCown's, and yet the AOS has changed the name as of August 7, 2020.

eBird hasn’t done their annual taxonomy update yet.