What crucial clue helps distinguish a female Bobolink from certain other sparrows in a mixed field?

Answer

Subtle white patches on the wings or feather edges

For novice birders, remembering that any visible white patterning on the wing of a streaky brown bird in this habitat should raise the suspicion of a Bobolink, even if it is a female or young bird.

What crucial clue helps distinguish a female Bobolink from certain other sparrows in a mixed field?
animalPlumageBobolink