Sturnella neglecta, commonly known as the Western Meadowlark, is native to North America. Its geographical distribution spans the central and western United States, parts of southwestern Canada, and northern Mexico. It is notably found from the Great Plains westward to the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Coast.

The Western Meadowlark primarily inhabits open grasslands, prairies, pastures, and fields. It prefers areas with short or mixed-height grasslands that provide ample visibility and space for foraging on the ground. These habitats usually include native grasses and sometimes agricultural lands.

As an insectivorous species, Sturnella neglecta occupies a niche as a ground-dwelling forager, feeding on insects, grains, and seeds. It contributes to the ecological balance by controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds. The species has adaptations for ground-nesting and requires undisturbed ground cover for successful breeding.