Dark-eyed Junco

Adult males typically have a dark charcoal-grey or black hood sharply contrasting with a white belly and grey back. Females and immature birds often have a similar pattern but with browner, less sharply defined hoods.

Dark hood sharply contrasting with white belly, pinkish-white conical bill, and flashing white outer tail feathers visible in flight.

Length: 13-17 cm (5.1-6.7 in), Wingspan: 18-25 cm (7.1-9.8 in), Weight: 18-30 g (0.6-1.1 oz)

Song is a simple, musical trill on a single pitch; calls include a sharp 'tack' or a soft ticking sound.

Primarily seeds of grasses, weeds, and fallen grains in winter; heavily supplemented with insects and spiders during the summer breeding season.

Coniferous and mixed forests during breeding season; visits open woodlands, brushy areas, fields, suburban yards, and parks in winter.

Partial migrant. Northern populations migrate south for the winter, while western mountain populations often move downward in elevation.

Builds an open cup nest hidden on the ground under logs, rocks, or tufts of grass. Lays 3-6 speckled eggs and raises 1-3 broods per year.

Townsend's Solitaire (lacks pink bill and white belly contrast) and various sparrows, but the distinct dark hood and white outer tail feathers are diagnostic.

Acts as an important seed disperser and helps control insect populations during the breeding season.

Least Concern, with a stable or increasing population trend.

Often found hopping on the ground beneath bird feeders. Providing white millet on low trays or directly on the ground will frequently attract them.

Dark-eyed Juncos are often called 'snowbirds' because they frequently appear in suburban areas right as winter weather sets in.