Urban Species #012: Dark-eyed junco Junco hyemalis

The junco is a distinctively colored sparrow, although its distinct coloration varies from place to place. (Pictured is the eastern variety, the slate-colored junco.) In fact, the various local color types used to be considered different species, but now they are all considered one. Juncos are notable for migrating south to northern cities like Boston for the winter, spending summer in Canada and Alaska. They are also known as "snowbirds," as their arrival comes at about the same time as snowy weather. Juncos are most often seen below birdfeeders, gleaning the seed that the messy chickadees and titmice have spilled to the ground. Their high whispered whistle is easy to recognize, as are their white outermost tail feathers, seen in flight.


photo by cottonmanifesto