Dark-eyed Junco (Junco Hyemalis)

 

Photos by BarrytheBirder

Males

The Dark-eyed Junco is a widely distributed and common sparrow with several forms across North America.   Renowned birder Kenn Kaufman says "For many regions this is a 'Snowbird' ".   Most widespread form is the eastern "Slate-coloured' Junco.   All Juncos are easily identified by their white outer tail feathers (in flight), pink bills, white bellies and dark eyes.

They nest in boreal and mountain and edges; in migration and winter, flock in a variety of habitats, including open woods, brushy areas, edges, and along roadsides.   They feed on the ground primarily on seeds and insects.

The Dark-eyed Junco breeds from Alaska, east to Newfoundland and south in mountains to California and northern Georgia.   They winter throughout the United States except in south Texas and south Florida.

Females

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BarrytheBirder