The Dark-eyed Junco | A Hardy Winter Bird

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Күн бұрын

The Dark-eyed Junco is one of the most widespread birds of North America, found all across the continent. Belonging to a family of new world sparrows called Passerellidae. Earning themselves the name “ Snowbirds” due to how they almost always seem to appear when winter sets in. They are one hardy winter bird, able to somehow survive in such freezing temperatures.
To assist with this video are my good friends, Ryan and Derek from the Badgerland Birding KZfaq channel. These brothers of Wisconsin provide fun and informative videos, often traveling throughout the United States as they go on a quest to find some of the more elusive or uncommon birds. I’m happy to have them help.
Badgerland Birding:
KZfaq: / badgerlandbirding
WordPress: badgerlandbirding.wordpress.com/
Facebook: / badgerlandbirding
Twitter: / badgerlandbirds
Instagram: / badgerlandbirding
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
01:22 Badgerland Birding attracting Dark-eyed Juncos
02:35 Habitat and how to find Dark-eyed Juncos
03:05 Identification & Features: Male, Female, Measurements, Weight.
03:22 Junco Variations and Forms (Slate-colored and Oregon Junco)
04:07 Similar Looking Birds (Black Phoebe and Spotted Towhee)
04:42 Migration, Flock Behavior, Pecking Order
05:46 Breeding
06:04 Nesting, eggs & location
06:50 Juvenille Junco
07:00 Dark-eyed Junco Song, Calls and Sounds
08:21 Population Status / Conservation
08:57 Diet and Food They Eat
09:25 How to Attract Them and What Types of Feeders
10:06 Closing Thoughts
Photos from other websites:
Names can be found on their respective photo/video or found below
(license at the end)
Thumbnail:
Photo only by Rabbitti from Getty Images via Canva.com/pro
Original was flipped horizontally
Junco variations (L-R) 3:23
1 by Alukich from Canva.com/pro
2 by LtBN
3 by Spartes from Getty Images via canva.com/pro
4 by Westhoff from Getty Images via canva.com/pro
5 by Jody Shugart, CC BY 4.0 creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia
(Original photo was cropped down)
6 by Dario, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication
Comparison (L-R) 4:13
1 (Slate-colored)Dark-eyed Junco by by LtBN
2 Black Phoebe by SweetyMommy from canva.com/pro
Comparison (L-R) 4:26
1 Oregon Junco by Matt Bango from canva.com/pro
2 Spotted Towhee by Devonyu from canva.com/pro
Female with Nesting Material 6:06
By G.L Monty
www.flickr.com/people/guylmonty/
Nesting spots (L-R) 6:16
1 Horizontal Branch by AEvenson from Canva.com/pro
2 Window Ledge By Roman Sevela from Canva.com/pro
3 Hanging Flower Pot By Taewafeel from Canva.com/pro
4 Outdoor Light Fixture By KathyKafka from Canva.com/pro
Buildings (L-R) 6:23
1 Neighborhood by Bauhaus1000 from Getty Images via Canva.com/pro
2 Downtown by Swalls from Getty Images via Canva.com /pro
Wilds seeds (L-R) 9:09
Chickweed by OllgaP from Canva.com/pro
Buckwheat by Efraimstochter from Pixabay.com
Lamb's Quarters by Fedsax from Getty Images via Canva.com/pro
Sorrel by Birute from Getty Images, via Canva.com/pro
Music:
at 1:45
5_O_July via iTunes free use library
Intro/Outro - Natural by EndlessLove
/ @endlesslove6444
via KZfaq Audio Library
Dark-eyed Junco Song, Calls and Sounds:
Excited calls at 7:07
Paul Marvin, XC449492. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/449492.
Trill Note at 7:20
Matt Wistrand, XC606101. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/606101.
(Noise-reduced)
Chip Note at 7:27
Frank Lambert, XC269028. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/269028.
(Noise-reduced)
Kew notes at 7:37
Jonathon Jongsma, XC104512. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/104512.
(Noise reduced and recording length doubled)
Song - at 7:53
Richard E. Webster, XC605843. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/605843.
(Noise-reduced)
Canva.com
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If you have a sick or injured bird in your possession I can not help this bird in any way it is strongly advised to contact a local vet or wildlife official before any decisions are made. It is very easy to do more harm than good when handling any wildlife.
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#LesleytheBirdNerd #WinterBirds #Birdwatching

Пікірлер: 458

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

f you enjoyed this video please help support our channels by SHARING it with other fellow birders. It’s a great way to help TREMENDOUSLY! I appreciate each and every one of your support and I hope you enjoyed the show!

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

@@ahsanjavaid4588 thank you Ahsan, very kind of you. 🙂

@affinityforanime 2 жыл бұрын

I've never seen a junco outside of winter. Ever since I was a kid, my parents have nicknamed juncos "little scratchy birds" because of their habit of scratching the ground like chickens.

@JoJoDoxieMom 2 жыл бұрын

We just had the worst nor'easter in years. We kept our platform feeders out and resupplied despite 40+ mph winds. The only birds steadfastly feeding ALL DAY were the juncos. One rugged little crowd! We love 💘 them ❤

@thebirdartistscottage 2 жыл бұрын

Juncos are not just hardy winter birds-they’re incredible at adapting to city environments, too! I watched a daddy “Oregon” Junco feeding a fledgling while I was sitting in the drive through at the bank of all places! He and his little fledgy were hopping along the side of the building in the flower bed, right next to the drive through, as if there weren’t loads of cars and all sorts of activity going on around them. They’re just wonderful little birds and I am so grateful to see them year ‘round! Thanks for another lovely video, Lesley!

@rachelbalsamo2133 2 жыл бұрын

I have seen them at my feeders and last summer to they nested under my deck. I love the way they hop and hold a foot up like the snow is too cold.

@elizabethhenning778 2 жыл бұрын

I've noticed that it seems to usually be papa junco teaching the babies to forage. Or at least foraging where I can see them.

@BirdsandGhibliFan 2 жыл бұрын

I think I’ve seen House Sparrows do the same thing. When I was in DC, I saw what looked like mother House Sparrow being followed by a begging fledgling on a busy sidewalk. Very interesting.

@frankhopkins7032 2 жыл бұрын

These and the Chickadees are my favorite birds! I always put plenty of seed and suet for them every winter. Well done as always!

@fgb3126 2 жыл бұрын

We have two chickadees species the Chestnut-backed and the Black-capped. They are constantly shooting around in amongst the Juncos.

@mountainside26 2 жыл бұрын

My two faves too!

@jeremiahyoung5931 2 жыл бұрын

Always enjoy their laser like sounds and watching them hop around in the snow. Watching them right now in fact.

@LouieTheLip 2 жыл бұрын

Just moved to New England & experienced these guys for first time when snow arrived they're so neat!

@djosbun 2 жыл бұрын

Junko in my Trunk-o will always be my favorite bird saying. JUNKO IN MY TRUNK-O! 🐦.

@suzsanborn9185 2 жыл бұрын

they are so cute with their round chest & little heads! 😍 I'll be putting out more ground seed for sure !

@jennyb360 2 жыл бұрын

I love these little guys. Their little ‘junco’ shuffle when foraging is adorable.

@BirdsandGhibliFan 2 жыл бұрын

I know, right? It looks like they are doing a little dance!

@stephaniedodt2389 2 жыл бұрын

They were at my feeder during the blizzard. I photographed 14 yesterday for my Cornell Project Feederwatch count. I fed at least 54 birds at minimum during the storm.

@shad3128 2 жыл бұрын

Same! I had SO many during the storm.

@erickmischke38 2 жыл бұрын

As we watch them hop along the snow laden deck rails, occasionally slipping, and catching themselves before they fall, my wife or I will say, “someone should tell them they can fly”! 🤪

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

Hahahah too adorable. ❤🐦

@mr.baggins7375 2 жыл бұрын

I just looked these guys up yesterday because there were about 15 of them in my yard after I put down some black oil sunflower seeds and peanuts for our bluejay family. The pigeons, cardinals, titmouse, juncos and blue jays were all getting along on this cold winter day.

@eltorpedo67 6 ай бұрын

I get cardinals, chickadees, nuthatches and both downy and hairy woodpeckers to my feeders in the winter, but I have to say the juncos are my favourite to watch. They're the first to arrive in the early morning, when it's barely even light out. I love watching them fan out along the snow covered ground searching for seed. So entertaining to watch.

@cantgetenoughoutdoors3258 2 жыл бұрын

Thier song is very underrated beautiful in late winter early spring oh how I love birds!!!!!

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

I totally agree!

@henrylitchfield3508 2 жыл бұрын

Watching this video while a group of ‘em devour my feeder. Thank you Lesley for making birding so enjoyable and informative!!

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

Awe how awesome. I'm so glad you have them visiting. Thanks for the comment 🐦❤

@micahbirdlover8152 Жыл бұрын

@@LesleytheBirdNerd great video 👍

@lady14bug 2 жыл бұрын

I so appreciate your videos. I'm disabled and can't go walking in the woods to see all the species you highlight. Thank you for all the work (taking footage and researching) you put into your videos!

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

You're very welcome. I am so happy that you get enjoyment from these videos. Much love. Take care ❤🐦

@janehuey 2 жыл бұрын

These little darlings are a delight to watch on dreary winter days - so cute!

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

They sure are ❤🐦

@justanotherguy312 8 ай бұрын

I’ve been on the look out for this winter. I might be mistaking the sub species for house finches

@Kay101Fay 2 жыл бұрын

The first time I ever saw these birds, was 12 years ago. At my community college, then my house. They're are soooooooo cute

@jenniferkiehl6186 2 жыл бұрын

The juncos returned to my feeders this week!! Well, the ground under the feeders actually :) I just love the adorable look of them, and the way they scratch-hop for seed!! SOOO cute!

@Coolleenc Жыл бұрын

I like to think of them as the ground level birds. Kind of like the way some types of fish are bottom feeders.

@rockfishmiller 2 жыл бұрын

Back yard scratchers, yes for sure. People, keep your cats inside. Thanks for posting.

@kathythompson8123 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Lesley.. I posted before about one of these little guys in my yard, that he looked pretty rough. I did see him the following day, but not after that. I had come to believe that a critter was the probable cause of his injuries, most likely one of the cats is the neighborhood. He did not show up the 3rd day. We had more snow by then, but a few days later it thawed a bit, and I found him frozen in the ice and snow along the fence. So sad, 😔they are one of my favourites in winter! I did what I could while he was here.. made a few trips out during the day to make sure he had food.. but I also know we can't save them all. ❤

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

Oh my gosh I am sorry to read that. It's heart breaking when we see one of those innocent little birds suffer. You were good to the little one and that does matter. Thanks for doing all that you could. Much love

@kathythompson8123 2 жыл бұрын

@@LesleytheBirdNerd thank you.. ❤And thank you for all your work on these videos! I love "my" birds.. and try to keep track of who visits.. birds are such wonderful creatures!

@BirdsandGhibliFan 2 жыл бұрын

Aw, that’s so sad! 😞 I can relate, too. A couple of months ago, I came home from work and I was replenishing and rearranging some feeders just before dusk. Along the backyard patio walkway, I saw a dead White-Throated Sparrow. I didn’t know what happened to it, but it looked like a predator mangled it a little bit and left it for dead. I carried the bird with gloves and buried it in a mound farther down in the backyard. It’s very disheartening whenever someone sees a dead bird. Not only do they have the extreme weather conditions to endure, but also predators and other hazards. It’s impossible to save them all, but we birders do the best we can. 😢🥺😔

@kathythompson8123 2 жыл бұрын

@@BirdsandGhibliFan ❤ oh my gosh.. so sorry! 😢 I love white-throats too! My favorite song to hear in spring.

@elizabethhenning778 2 жыл бұрын

@@BirdsandGhibliFan Sounds like the work of a cat "playing." It's infuriating that so many cat owners think this is no big deal.

@IrishPizzaMan 2 жыл бұрын

Wow!! I just saw a dozen of them in the trees yesterday here in Hunterdon county New Jersey. It’s 20 degrees outside this week!

@cattailer1077 2 жыл бұрын

Yep. CT Just had a New England nor Easter yesterday and I looked out at my deck and there they were...Soooo I had to go out and shovel and throw out their snacks! They stuck around thru the storm, so I had to continuously clear the deck and refresh their snacks🥰. The sun is brilliant today and the juncos are no where to be seen! I'm always happy to oblige. They're one of my favs🥰. Love their chirps😘

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

Awww I know your pain, we just were hit with that too. So much snow and wind. Very nice of you to go to trouble of shoveling out their snacks, so sweet. :)

@karenlucashuryner6727 2 жыл бұрын

Juncos have always been one of my favorite birds- when I was young I loved watching them foraging in the snow and would often sketch them. A peaceful, beautiful delight.

@wendymarano9404 5 ай бұрын

I’ve only been on a bird journey for less than a year. I am totally hooked on the dark eyed junco. I saw so many of them below my feeder on the ground when we had a snow recently here in New Jersey. I love those little guys.

@Terri_Stauffer 2 жыл бұрын

Dark-eyed Juncos are so cute, I have them year round, with lots more in winter. They are feasting on seeds right now, they also love to eat the seeds on the plants in garden as I don’t do fall clean up so the birds can eat the seeds. They seem to really like the perennial sunflower and black eyed Susan. They are first to come so always makes sure to have seed out before I go to bed for them in the morning and they used to be last to leave for the night. Well they don’t have far to go some live under my front porch, they fly in and out all day.

@blueocean21042 2 жыл бұрын

We live in Lyme and have many, many Junco’s right now. They’re such a joy to watch as they feed and interact with one another.

@mynz4464 2 жыл бұрын

I love the pink bill! And they will get pretty close to you if you don't move.

@mountaingirl6323 2 жыл бұрын

I live in the western mountains of Maine and have some seriously adorable Dark Eyed Junco’s that visit my feeder’s! I believe they are the same ones from last Winter! I also have other ‘Wintering’ birds from last Winter, such as Canadian Gray Jays, Evening Grosbeaks, American Tree Sparrows! I love them all! Who’s spirit couldn’t be lifted by watching these wonderful birds and the ‘pew, pew, pew’ is the cutest thing ever! Thank you for sharing! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

@cpearson7372 2 жыл бұрын

The girls, and I love to look for the "little tuxedo birdies!" They come, every late fall, and we watch them hopping around the deck, snatching up the millet, and seeds, that we toss out for them, the carolina wrens and the mourning doves(gosh, do I adore the mourning dove's plumage, and sound at take off).

@BirdsandGhibliFan 2 жыл бұрын

The Oregon subspecies does look like a Towhee, almost. Very interesting! I have heard of this subspecies, and have seen them in videos, but I don’t think I have seen one that looked as brown as the one in that picture seen in this video at 3:54. I still see lots of the Eastern, slate-colored subspecies since the aftermath of the recent winter storm. They’re like kids outside on a snow day. Thanks for sharing, Lesley, and stay warm!

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

Yes, I can totally see how someone could mistake a towhee for the Oregon subspecies. That is so cute about all your little junco buddies, they are like kids. I love them. Thanks for checking out the video. ❤🐦

@katydidwhat6120 2 жыл бұрын

Interestingly, towhees and juncos are related (both in the family Passerillidae- or the New World sparrows). I notice that both the Eastern towhee here and the slate dark-eye junco have the flash of white on the underside of their tailfeathers.

@BirdsandGhibliFan 2 жыл бұрын

@@katydidwhat6120 Cool! 😀 I knew that the slate-colored Dark-Eyed Junco had white tips on the outer tail feathers (and that both the Junco and the Towhee are in the sparrow family), but I didn’t know that the Eastern Towhee had them, too. Thanks for the tidbit. 😎🙂

@janeenpfeiffer3465 Жыл бұрын

I have dark eyed juncos in my yard, they are adorable to watch! You and the Sallman Bros are my favorite bird channels 🥰

@Klaatu-ij9uz 2 жыл бұрын

Great to see young folk involved in "birding".

@jolenebauser408 2 жыл бұрын

I love the Dark-eyed junco! I get several every winter at my feeders.

@fgb3126 2 жыл бұрын

"Several"? LOL. It's the dominant bird in my yard with an average of a dozen each day here in the Pac. NW.

@kateclark7250 2 жыл бұрын

I have about half dozen junco in my small backyard in Central Pennsylvania. I have always loved seeing these birds

@corniss 2 жыл бұрын

They are definitely a delight.

@roserushlow 2 жыл бұрын

Here in Vermont we have lots of dark slate Juncos. I call them little penguins. I love watching them every day out my dining room window.

@natashialynn 2 жыл бұрын

The Juncos are one of my favorite most entertaining birds to watch in the backyard. Tough, spunky, sweet little birds 😊

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

Yes they are!

@micahbirdlover8152 2 жыл бұрын

@@LesleytheBirdNerd I want to see one😔so bad 😞

@treelover1050 2 жыл бұрын

THE JUNCOS ARE THE ONES I FEED THE MOST FROM MY FOOD BOWLS. I. JUST BOUGHT MORE FOOD FOR THEM AND SQUIRRELS TO HELP THEM SURVIVE THE WINTER. SO MUCH ENJOYMENT WATCHING BIRDS AND SQUIRRELS FEEDING.

@webuyhousesdenvercolorado Жыл бұрын

This channel has gotten me to love and appreciate birds at a level I'd never thought I would. I've always loved birds but didn't realize just how special they really are until watching this channel.

@MiguelACoronaDM 2 жыл бұрын

The backyard is filled with them. They're very social and seem to enjoy the company of the other birds at the feeders. It's a joy to have them here each winter.

@malolm 2 жыл бұрын

Hello friend, I am so happy today I hand feed a little chickadee for the first time it was wonderful and it made me think of you! Keep up the great work!

@Ovenbirder 2 жыл бұрын

Nice collaborative video! At the nature center where I work we’ve been hosting a flock of 40+ juncos! I really like how identifiable they are as they fly and flash their white outer tail feathers. That flash serves to attract mates and also to distract predators in pursuit of them.

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

Oh my goodness that is so many Juncos. I've never gotten that many before. WOW. Thanks for the little bit of information on their flash being a way to distract predators, I did not know that. :)

@crazydragy4233 2 жыл бұрын

Something about big flocks is so magical. This year again I saw a migrating flock of easily over 40 Redwings (turdus iliacus) (I must say, they're easily my favourite thrush here) multiple times. It truly is breathtaking to see so much colour and movement on a calm, white winter day. Oddly enough I saw a lone individual later too, poor thing must have been kicked out.

@MrMotchel 2 жыл бұрын

Just had 8 Junkos out on my porch this morning ☺️ They’re definitely the most common birds coming for seeds around me in CT

@WalkingScriptureWithShanna 2 жыл бұрын

I love our resident Juncos 🥰 during the snow storm the other day, I got a cute picture of one taking shelter under our porch

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

Aww so sweet

@turkeyrunfarms 2 жыл бұрын

I have been feeding a small flock of juncos this winter. They are so fun to watch, such a beautiful little bird.

@michaelsimko7694 2 жыл бұрын

I live in southwestern CT. Dark-eyed Juncos begin to arrive once we start getting frost. Whenever the fall is warm and colder weather arrives late, the Juncos arrive late. They are one of few birds that blend in so well with the snow. It amazes me how they're able to find food on snow-covered grounds when there aren't any feeders. The Dark-eyed Junco is the most musical, followed by the Pine Warbler and Chipping Sparrow. The Chipping Sparrow has a drier sound while the Pine Warbler isn't as musical as the Dark-eyed Junco.

@karllaun2427 2 жыл бұрын

We see many Juncos over the winter months. I particularly enjoy watching them on "cleanup duty" underneath the feeders that spill over onto our deck.

@mamaboocee 2 жыл бұрын

I KNOW for sure I am seeing the very same individuals I saw last year because they came looking for seed where I only leave it in winter (I hadn't left any there yet this year) which is very different from where I leave it in the warmer weather. Smart little birds!! They are fun to watch and I love their little "star wars" calls! They answer me when I make the call! Thanks for a great video!

@TuesdayNightFever 2 жыл бұрын

We enjoy hundreds of Juncos here in the coniferous forest in the mountains of New Mexico. I love their sweet pink beaks. They usually hang out with the finches and Juniper Titmouse

@mynz4464 2 жыл бұрын

I have many dark-eyes juncos near my Wisconsin town! Both by my home and by my work.

@ArleneDKatz 2 жыл бұрын

I loved this one. It’s great to feature members of the community. Thank you

@hello-laura 2 жыл бұрын

*The laser sound💥from Star Wars is EXACTLY what I said when I described the noise a dark eyed junco can make! Hahah.*

@aknightthatsaysnee5259 2 жыл бұрын

Sooo pleased to see you working with Badgerland Birding! My two and only birding channels teaming up! That's fantastic😄 I highly recommend the Badgerland Birding channel for those who haven't seen it yet. Two great guys (brothers) who know their stuff, AND reply on their comment section. I've watched all of their and Leslie's videos! You should, too.

@marie_171 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for a new videos on the little junco birds. Yes, I have seen many of those on my deck on the snow. Thanks for showing the call sounds as I had no clue what sounds they make. Very informative.

@vikingwoman1988 2 жыл бұрын

They feed from my feeders every winter. Cute little things!

@nancywhite2014 2 жыл бұрын

I see these sweet little birds every winter. Back in the summer of 2020, both my sister and one of her daughters had them nesting at their houses, in western New York. One of my favorite birds.

@billko867 2 жыл бұрын

How interesting! I live in Syracuse, NY - just to the east of what is considered Western New York. ("Central New York" for those who are unfamiliar with the various New York regions.) They are winter birds in Syracuse, so we don't see them during breeding season.

@julejustjule 2 жыл бұрын

Juncos are my cats favourite bird to watch through the window. Probably because juncos stay on the ground a lot. I have seen they don't like when the sun is out and sometimes wait to feed until the feeder is in shade. They are also a hard bird to photograph so kudos to you guys for your great shots.

@CornCrakerOats Ай бұрын

They are some of my favorites! Always keep me company at my feeders on those long winter days

@crazycarl00 Жыл бұрын

I'd never noticed or seen these little birbs in my 40 years. I put up a couple of feeders this year and they just showed up once it got cold. It has been spectacular. Now there are at least 6 of them hanging out. Makes me feel obligated to keep the feeder full. Lovely little fluffy birds.

@Beryllahawk 2 жыл бұрын

I think I'm outside their range being in the "deep South" as I am - but these birds sure are adorable. Wonderful video and a great collaboration!

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Sonja. The range of juncos is quite wide. They are in the south over winter.

@micahbirdlover8152 2 жыл бұрын

@@LesleytheBirdNerd what does mean when I see dark eyed junco in spring?

@micahbirdlover8152 2 жыл бұрын

@@LesleytheBirdNerd I saw these adorable birds in spring scratching in ground

@crazydragy4233 2 жыл бұрын

Every place has such wonderful (avian in this case) fauna, this is why we have to protect biodiversity; who could bear to loose such gorgeous feathered critters?! Very lovely well-rounded and informative video on this cute passerine bird from across the pond! Always a pleasure to see what unique birds exist out there, beyond the horizon :)

@billko867 2 жыл бұрын

It was cool that you had teammates for this video! LOVE these little birds. Seeing them under the bushes hopping around and scratching is one of the most enjoyable relaxing activities I can think of. Watching them just fills me with an inner calm. Thank you so much for featuring them in a video.

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

I am so glad that you enjoyed this video. Juncos are one of the best birds. Very fun to watch and so beautiful looking. Plus their sounds are supper adorable. 🐦❤

@micahbirdlover8152 2 жыл бұрын

@@LesleytheBirdNerd I enjoyed this video 😊

@dianemccabe9907 Жыл бұрын

I always see them every year but never knew what they were called. So, thank you for putting a name to this lovely snow bird! I enjoy seeing the flitting about!!

@cjc2010 2 жыл бұрын

I only see them around my feeder when it snows, but they show up like clockwork when it does.

@atheistsince1210 2 жыл бұрын

Always a joy Leslie thanks to your two assistants! I CANNOT attract the Junkos I’ve had better luck in VA- also I’d like to hang up a Niger seed feeder but alas I’m hostage to six or seven squirrels so I tread lightly with a weight activated feeder with sunflower kernels the chicadees house sparrows downy woodpecker and flickers and nuthatches love it - but I can’t bring in the junkos I do long for them so 💕

@rabbitfishtv 2 жыл бұрын

Great video! We can watch juncos in our Toronto backyard from our kitchen window, and you’re right, they make winter a more pleasant season.

@tinathorne8355 2 жыл бұрын

Thxxx. I actually saw a dark eyed junior the other day.,sitting on my bird bath taking at my empty feeder.They feed below it when the seeds fallout.😂❤

@darkplatina 2 жыл бұрын

Hey there, Lesley! Great video as always. Here’s a comment about my winter birding experience so far, since I think you might be interested in a birder’s take on winter from a much more southern climate: 1. Here where I live, we’ll normally get maybe 5 days of freeze a year, and about a half inch of snow every other year. We usually average in the high 30s to mid 40s F, but it’s not unusual for us to get the odd day in the mid 60s. Even while taking walks through my local (small, paved) woods, I’m always surprised at how active the relatively warmer days are! It seems like all of the birds explode into life to take advantage of the warm temperatures. Robins, kinglets, and yellow-rumped warblers seem to materialize out of thin air to tear up the woods for food and water, and then disappear just as quickly when the weather turns cold again! 2. It’s been a great time to see waterfowl. A local church with huge ponds has recently set out dog decoys to deter waterfowl from their ponds (somewhat hypocritical I think of a church to do, but when you’re getting 40+ Canadian geese a day I guess I can’t fault them too much), which has led to an uptick in strange/unusual/new sightings at my local pond. Ring-necks, scaups, and even a wigeon have shown up obviously, and I’m sure I’m missing more visitors because of how cryptic the females can be at times. 3. We have owls in the woods! Our nest boxes are actually being used, at least as roost boxes for Eastern Screech-owls to stay out of the weather. I always wondered why owls were depicted as sticking their heads out of tree cavities, and mow I know why: because that’s how I see them, chin set happily on the edge of the box. 4. The warm days are remarkably busy! So busy that I even spotted my first Brown Thrashers. I was walking along a path when I heard something scuttling around in the leaf litter. I initially passed it off as a rabbit or something, but decided to look under the bush just because. And there it was: a streaky patch of brown staring back at me with its piercing yellow eye! They’re so fascinating. 5. As per your winter birding video, I can definitely vouch for hawks becoming more active during winter. It feels like every time I head out, the blue jays are chasing down the local Sharpies, Coopers, Red-taileds, and Red-shouldereds! I’m hoping that someday soon I can befriend the blue jays, but for now I think the Carolina Wrens like me just fine. 😄

@chriscarlsen2100 2 жыл бұрын

This was so interesting! I've wonder what it's like for people to get all our summer birds when they head for warmer temps. I like your take on what you observe.

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

Oh my gosh you have been paying very close attention to the bird activity in your warmer location. I enjoyed reading about your observations and adventures. How lucky about the Thrashers. I've yet to see one and would love to. They are so neat looking. I hope you're successful with befriending the blue jays, maybe I'm biased but they are the best birds I've been lucky enough to know so well. I love them. But I have to say that I'm so jealous of you Carolina wren success. They are adorable and funny. Gosh I admire them and know for certain that I'd have a blast knowing them. It's funny that for you the birds are active when it is warmer and disappear when it turns cold. Its opposite for me, the birds seem to be way more active on the cold days. I guess they have to in order to keep their little furnaces going especially the smaller guys like chickadees. Thanks for your nice comment. It was a pleasure to read. 🐦❤

@shad3128 2 жыл бұрын

Have so many of these little dudes near my pine tree in the yard. They love to hop around underneath where I spread food for them

@markh1380 2 жыл бұрын

Excellent video, looks like they give the Black Cap Chickadee competition for winter hardiness

@rubywilder6547 2 жыл бұрын

I have been feeding black eyed junco's all this winter. This is the first time for me. I've been enjoying them so much.

@beatleowl 2 жыл бұрын

I love the juncos! Have lots right now in Ohio, so I'm making sure to keep them fed. So nice to watch out the window when it is too cold to go out.

@julieprior3126 2 жыл бұрын

Beautiful. Quite a range of sounds they make for small birds. I really enjoyed this one, as always!

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

Yes they really do much quite a lot of differnet sounds. Such lovely birds. Thank you for checking out the video. ❤

@JCPJCPJCP 2 жыл бұрын

We had a blizzard here in southeastern New England yesterday, and up to 30 inches of snow fell in some places. But the storm swept the brick walkway beneath my windows clear, along with some of the dirt and bushes around it. So I threw large amounts of mixed birdseed in the clear spots and the juncos were out there all day, along with a few doves and sparrows and a jay and a cardinal. The juncos are unstoppable. I've seen them foraging and feeding in worse storms with far stronger winds.

@MsSomebodysMom 2 жыл бұрын

We love watching the juncos in our yard and at our feeders. Sweet little birds!

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

I know they, arent they such lovely birds. ❤🐦

@libraryscholaralexis6581 2 жыл бұрын

I love the Dark-eyed Junco so much. I usually see them in winter in my backyard. I remember when I was a kid one of them was sitting on the deck and looked me in the eye for a little bit before flying away. That along with one of my grade school teachers is the reason that I love birds so much.

@llamalover02 2 жыл бұрын

My husband and I just moved to a new place and we have a whole extended family of these little guys. They really are the first to come out in the morning. It's fun to learn more about them! Thanks for the video.

@rosshodge333 2 жыл бұрын

Here in south central BC we get the Oregon variety with the short hoods. They seem to have narrower white darts in their tail feathers also. We at 3600' so it may be that they enjoy the shoulder seasons here. The birds frequenting our feeders these days are Nuthatches and Black capped Chickadees. Today our beautiful electric blue Stellar Jay was hanging around the suet. He has a jet black hood and sharp white eyebrows. It's a shame I can't post a photo of him.

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

The Steller's jay sounds awesome. You could share it via email if you like.

@rosshodge333 2 жыл бұрын

@@LesleytheBirdNerd I'd gladly send you some photos of him. Just have to put some nuts out for Mr. Squirrely and he'll show up.

@wayne7587 2 жыл бұрын

We started bird feeding last winter and the Juncos were here right from the start! It took a while to see them up close, I think because a dominant flock of Sparrows was trying to hoard our offerings. Eventually, the Juncos got all the way to our back deck and they are now in our top three favorites to watch! I especially enjoy the way they run like Robins will for a short way. Ours do that mostly when they are out in the open, which means not often! Thanks for all you do for the world of birds!

@bethkoch11 2 жыл бұрын

They are one of my favorite species. Such happy little birds. I live in Southern Nevada, so we only see them here in winter.

@tonysopranosduck416 Жыл бұрын

I knew I would find information on this sweet little scavenger on your channel! I’ve been blessed by these little men these last few days as a polar vortex has blown into Alberta. Such a delight these cheeky birds are and so beautiful to see these charcoal grey blobs hopping along the snowy ground and evergreens, bossing all the other birds around. They make winter here amusing , but they must flee the north during spring because I only ever see them in the cold months. Thanks Leslie!

@hollyrochford 7 ай бұрын

I have a feeder at my work here in Virginia now and for the first time saw a junco. I'm fascinated bc he was unshakeable. Totally unbothered by other birds even as the others flinched, arrived moved about and flew off. That junco stayed unflinching and ate! Lol

@earthlightstudio Жыл бұрын

Dark-eyed Juncos are my favourite bird and we get the Oregon variety here. When we got that big dump of snow in January, while out shovelling, the Juncos and Rufus-sided Towhees followed me around as I exposed the ground under the snow. It makes snow-shovelling so much more enjoyable!

@johnnyc613 2 жыл бұрын

I love how the juncos hop along the ground & kick up the snow looking for seed 😁😁😁

@tobycutler80 7 ай бұрын

I started birding less than a week ago when I bought a bird feeder with Christmas money I had just gotten from my dad. The Oregon juncos were the first to appear in my yard to eat the seed I scattered on the ground. They are really cute and I love seeing them. I get around 20 every day and when I or my dog are outside they perch in the trees nearby waiting for us to go away so they can get back to eating!

@omegasage777 2 жыл бұрын

They are SO CUTEEEE!! I love seeing them in the winter. They're extra fluffy and cute when its cold out lol

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

I know they are so cute in winter haha 🥰🐦

@dlm1166 2 жыл бұрын

I've had feeders for years but this year I started scattering seed on my patio and its the first time I noticed these little guys! I love them so much!!

@shermansherbert2570 2 жыл бұрын

The junkos here in Michigan have been loving the ground scraps that fall from my feeders, as well as the feeders too. They seem so happy and immune to the winter.

@darlenefrye 2 жыл бұрын

I enjoy watching them at and on the ground below my backyard feeder here in Port Perry, Ontario

@TheSunflowerGalaxy 2 жыл бұрын

I just sighted these beauties outside of my home this morning, and I live near a busy street 💗 🐦 So happy to feed them, too. It was a very frigid few days!

@calbrockocat8728 2 жыл бұрын

I have these guys at my feeders and on my balcony floor. I sweep it every night and put fresh seed down about an hour before sunrise. I really like seeing how they bob about. My feeders get chickadees, purple finches, cardinals, downies and the occasional hairy woodpecker. Lately, starlings, a dove and a blue jay. I'm the only one in my area feeding them, so I am visited almost all day long.

@donnaleighjenkins4952 2 жыл бұрын

Love seeing them. They do come forge around under my feeders where the seeds have fallen. Only in mid fall to early winter. I get the slate colored ones here in east/central Texas. So beautiful!

@justinedevoe7166 2 жыл бұрын

Loved this video. They always bring joy when I see them at my feeders in the winter in Ohio. I’ve never heard them sing. So that was a plus. 🥰. Thank you. ♥️

@LesleytheBirdNerd 2 жыл бұрын

You're very welcome, I'm glad you enjoyed the part about their song.

@janwells2199 2 жыл бұрын

I too have never heard their song. I see them through the glass door where I put seeds on my patio. How badly I want a high quality, cold proof, microphone/transmitter with a great speaker inside. (Baby monitors are so static-y.) Some website claimed to be developing one, but it fell through. Maybe covid.

@bluebirdwatcher8624 2 жыл бұрын

Juncos are one my favorite birds to watch happily hopping around our feeders during winter storms. Thanks for this informative and fun to watch video.

@granddeity 2 жыл бұрын

I love Dark-eyed Juncos! I have the pleasure of seeing them year round.

@richdorak1547 2 жыл бұрын

So small but so tough. Amazing. I get them every winter in N.J., USA

@kingdavidapple 4 ай бұрын

This video reminds me of the privilege I enjoy living where I see many birds regularly, only to learn people in much of the nation wait for the opportunity. Here in eastern WA at above 2,000 feet altitude we have Oregon juncos year-round, even in town. My part of town has trees over 80 years old & I haven't heard the long trill - yet. But then I haven't been outside quite as much this late winter.

@Tejah 2 жыл бұрын

Lol the sparing cue cue totally sounds like a Star Wars battle.

@markheatherington8367 2 жыл бұрын

Snow birds indeed. I'm a nature photographer based in the S. Oregon Cascade foothills. Many of my favorite locations are over 5000' in elevation. As soon as they show up at my house in fall I know those locations are snowed in and not worth the 20 minute drive. The cute little ones have never failed me yet