Bird Food Preferences

Nyjer^®, sunflower hearts, and white proso millet

Bird Feeder Preferences

Hopper and platform

Plants to Attract

Non-woody Plants: Alfilaria, chickweed, crabgrass, knotweed, lamb’s quarters, pigweed, ragweed, sorrel, and timothy

Description

In the western United States, Dark-eyed Juncos are found year round.  In winter, they are also found in the east and are commonly referred to as “snowbirds.”  In Canada, juncos can be seen during the summer months.  Dark-eyed Juncos can be found in a variety of habitats including coniferous forests, deciduous forests, fields, parks, and backyards.

Dark-eyed Juncos are about six inches in length and weigh around one ounce.  They have dark gray heads and chests with white underparts and pink bills.  Their body color ranges from dark gray to brown.  However, there are five groups of juncos in North America and they show regional differences in appearance across the country.

The female builds the nest, which can vary greatly depending on the location.  Nests built on the ground are made of grasses or pine needles, while other nests are built with twigs and lined with grasses and hair.  Most nests are built on the ground in a divot.

Similar Species

Black Phoebe and Spotted Towhee