Songbirds are a highly diverse group that both puzzle scientists, and provide incredible insights into the mysteries of evolution. Convergent evolution occurs when two unrelated species develop the same appearance due to environmental conditions. In the grasslands of North America, the Western Meadowlark has evolved from blackbirds, which still exist today as black, tree dwelling birds. A variety of very specific plumage, shape and feeding traits distinguish this bird. However, in Western Africa, grasslands are inhabited by an unrelated bird known as the Yellow-bellied Longclaw, which is a descendant of a very different group of birds, the old world pipits, which are small brown songbirds of open country. The Yellow-bellied Longclaw (pictured) and Western Meadowlark both look nothing like their respective ancestors.On two continents, two birds have drastically departed from the form, habits and color of their closest relatives while becoming nearly identical to each other. This is one of the clearest examples of evolution.