Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis)
The Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) is a widespread and adaptable sparrow known for its distinctive grey plumage and contrasting white belly. Often seen in flocks, these birds are a common sight across North America, particularly during the winter months when they forage on the ground in search of seeds.
| 🇫🇷 | Junco ardoisé |
| 🇩🇪 | Winterammer |
| 🇲🇽 | Junco ojioscuro |
| Taxonomy | |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
How to Identify
Males have a dark grey head, a grey body, and a white belly. The greyish colour, the tendency of the species to appear in flocks, and its preference for feeding on the ground, often below feeding stations, are strong indicators. Additionally, observing the bird up close reveals its dark, almost black eyes, which confirm the identification.
Tap image to enlarge
Tap image to enlarge
Tap image to enlarge
Tap image to enlarge
Tap image to enlarge
Tap image to enlarge
Click on photo to enlarge.
Characteristics
| Length | 13-17.5cm |
| Weight | 18-30g |
| Wingspan | 18-25cm |
| Clutch Size | 3-6 eggs |
| Incubation | 12-13 days |
| Fledging | 9-13 days |
| Sexual Maturity | 1 year |
| Source | Wikipedia |
Where and When to Spot
I have observed Dark-eyed Juncos on several occasions in Mount Royal Park during late autumn, both before and after the first snowfall. Additionally, I noted their presence in Newfoundland near the airport during the summer months.
Observation Records by Park and Season
| Location | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boisé Des Douze | x | - | - | - |
| Jardin Botanique de Montréal | x | - | - | x |
| Parc Angrignon | x | - | - | x |
| Parc Michel-Chartrand | x | - | x | x |
| Parc Nature Pointe aux Prairies | x | - | - | - |
| Parc de la Frayère | x | - | - | - |
"x" indicates the species was observed, while "-" indicates no observation. Lack of observation doesn't necessarily imply that the species is absent. Data is derived from our park visit journals.