Dark-eyed Junco variation
The Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) is a favorite of mine from years of feeder watching. Staring at dozens of them at a time through the glass and thousands upon thousands over the years certainly taught me that they are such a variable species in terms of appearance. Not only do the browns, grays, and tans take on different hues, the birds sometimes appear to have distinct features that are not “right” for the species with streaking on the belly or flanks, eye-rings, and even wing bars! On a dark and dreary autumn day it can be a lot of fun to find a flock of birds to examine...
Read MoreDark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis)
Have “your” Dark-eyed Juncos (Junco hyemalis) returned yet? While many of us in the Chautauqua-Allegheny region have them year-round there are millions upon millions more pouring into our yards now, readying to dine at your place all winter. Juncos can be so variable in pattern and are always a lot of fun to study on a frigid, snowy day. In the past I have particularly enjoyed seeing some with eye rings and others with wing bars! Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreDark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) nest
Elyse recently found this Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) nest with hatchlings..they’re not just a wintering species in our region!
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