Dark-Eyed Junco

Dark-eyed Juncos are common sparrows found throughout North America. They show a great deal of geographic variation, with many subspecies divided into five recognizable groups. The group found locally is known, appropriately enough, as Oregon Junco.

by John Rakestraw

Female Dark-eyed Junco, photographed in Wood Village.  Oregon (like the one pictured) and Slate-colored are races of Dark-eyed Junco

Unlike most other sparrows, juncos are not streaked, but rather show areas of solid color. The most distinguishing mark is the gray or blackish hood covering the entire head and upper breast. This hood contrasts with the rich brown back and wings. The belly is white, while the sides are washed pale rufous. In flight, the outer tail feathers flash bright white, making identification easy at a distance. In winter, you may find the occasional Slate-colored Junco. This eastern subspecies is a uniform dark gray above and bright white below. Female juncos resemble males, but tend to be a little browner overall, with less contrast between the gray hood and brown body.

Dark-eyed Juncos nest on or close to the ground, often in a shallow cavity. Locations include slopes with overhanging vegetation and root balls of fallen trees. The female builds a nest of coarse materials lined with fine rootlets and hair. The typical clutch is four eggs, and two or three broods are raised each year.

While most conspicuous in winter, Dark-eyed Juncos are common in Oregon year round. They nest in forest and edge habitats with a thick understory. In winter, they form flocks in brushy fencerows, wetland edges, and yards and parks with sufficient cover. Their diet consists of small seeds and insects. Most food is taken close to the ground, but males will sometimes take food while singing high in a tree.

Juncos are common visitors to bird feeders, readily taking millet and black oil sunflower seeds from trays, platforms, and the ground. They will also eat nyger and occasionally, suet.