Dark-eyed Junco
ExploreBird
Dark-eyed Junco
Junco hyemalis
The Dark-eyed Junco is a small, cheerful bird with a round body and a short tail. They usually have a dark gray or brown color and can be found hopping around on the ground looking for seeds.
Habitat: Forests, gardens, and parks
Appearance
The Dark-eyed Junco has slate-grey upperparts, a bright white belly, and a pale pinkish bill. Its most distinctive feature is the flash of white outer tail feathers seen when it flies or hops. Females are typically paler brown-grey.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyPasserellidaeGenusJunco
Category
BirdRarity
Common
Danger
1/5
Snaps
398
Interesting facts
Baby juncos eat lots of insects, helping them grow big and strong quickly!
Did you know there are many different types of juncos with unique patterns?
Juncos typically build their nests on the ground, hidden under plants or logs!
Some juncos migrate over 2000 km to warmer winter homes!
Special abilities
Ability
Ground-Scratcher
Dark-eyed Juncos can 'kick-scratch' backwards with both feet simultaneously to uncover hidden seeds on the forest floor.
Ability
Feathered Flash
Dark-eyed Juncos have bright white outer tail feathers that they flash to confuse predators or signal to other juncos.
Ability
Winter Wanderer
Dark-eyed Juncos can fluff feathers for insulation and shiver to generate heat, helping them survive cold winters.
Measurements & details
- Length
- 13-17 cm
- Wingspan
- 18-25 cm
- Weight
- 0.018-0.03 kg
- Lifespan
- 3-7 years
- Top Speed
- 40 km/h
- Clutch Size
- 3-6
- Incubation
- 11-13 days
- Migration Distance
- 2000 km
Diet & Feeding
These small birds primarily eat seeds but also enjoy munching on various insects.
Age differences: Young juncos consume a higher proportion of insects for rapid growth.
Primary Foods
- grass seeds
- weed seeds
- beetles
- caterpillars
- spiders
- ants
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eaten by
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Accipiter striatus
A common predator of small songbirds like juncos.
eaten by
Domestic Cat
Felis catus
Domestic cats are significant predators, especially in urban areas.
eats
Quackgrass
Elymus repens
Juncos consume the seeds of various common grasses.
eats
Black Garden Ant
Lasius niger
Juncos forage for ants and other small invertebrates.
Traits
Wildlife
Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!
Feathered
These are animals covered in soft, beautiful feathers that help them fly, stay warm, and even attract mates! Think of all the amazing birds you know.
Omnivorous
Meet versatile eaters who enjoy a wide variety of foods, from plants to other animals, allowing them to adapt to many different environments. They're nature's flexible diners!
Singing
Listen to the beautiful sounds of nature's singers! These animals use their voices to attract friends, mark their territory, or even warn others.
Forest
These lush habitats are filled with countless trees, offering homes to a huge variety of plants and animals! Immerse yourself in the green canopy.
Diurnal
Wake up with creatures that are most active during the day! They love the sunshine for finding food, playing, and exploring.
Also known as
Slate-colored JuncoSnowbird
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5
These birds are friendly and harmless. Just enjoy watching them from a distance!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Dark-eyed Junco?
13-17 cm
What is Dark-eyed Junco's wingspan?
18-25 cm
How much does Dark-eyed Junco weigh?
0.018-0.03 kg
How long does Dark-eyed Junco live?
3-7 years
How fast can Dark-eyed Junco move?
40 km/h
What does Dark-eyed Junco eat?
These small birds primarily eat seeds but also enjoy munching on various insects.
Where is Dark-eyed Junco usually found?
Forests, gardens, and parks
How does Dark-eyed Junco hunt?
Foraging
Snap Map
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Recent Snaps
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