As the aspens lose their leaves and a chill settles over the Colorado Front Range, a new wave of birds arrives, ready to brave the winter with us. While many species head south, the dark eyed junco, often called the "snowbird," comes down from the mountains, becoming one of our most common winter visitors.
Identifying the Dark-eyed Junco
The dark eyed junco is a small, sparrow-sized bird with a distinctive appearance. Here's what to look for:
- Coloration: In our region, you'll most commonly see the Slate-colored Junco, characterized by its dark gray or slate-colored head, breast, and back. Its belly is white, and it has a pinkish bill.
- White Outer Tail Feathers: A key field mark is the flash of white on the outer tail feathers, especially noticeable in flight.
- Size: They are relatively small, about 5.5 to 6.5 inches long.
- Habitat: While they breed in the higher elevations of the Rocky Mountains, during winter, you'll find them in open woodlands, fields, and suburban areas across the Front Range, from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs.
Keep an eye out for them hopping around on the ground, foraging for seeds. They are often seen in flocks, sometimes mixed with other sparrows.
Attracting Dark-eyed Juncos to Your Yard
The dark eyed junco is a ground feeder, so offering the right food and placement is key. Here are some tips to attract them to your yard:
Food Choices
- White-striped Black Oil Sunflower Seeds: A favorite of many birds, including juncos.
- Hulled Sunflower Seeds (Sunflower Chips): Easier for them to eat and minimizes waste.
- Millet: Another excellent choice, especially white proso millet. Scatter it on the ground or in a low platform feeder.
- WBU Seed Blends: Our Wild Birds Unlimited seed blends are specially formulated to attract a variety of birds, including juncos. Stop by one of our Colorado stores to learn more about the best blend for your yard.
Feeder Placement
- Ground Feeding: Juncos prefer to feed on the ground. Scatter seeds directly on the ground, especially near shrubs or other cover.
- Platform Feeders: Low platform feeders are also a good option.
- Hopper Feeders: While they may visit hopper feeders, they are less likely to use them than other birds.
Water
Providing a source of fresh water, even in winter, is crucial. A heated bird bath will ensure that water remains accessible even on the coldest days.
Beyond the Backyard
While attracting juncos to your yard is rewarding, consider exploring other birding hotspots in the Denver metro area. The South Platte River corridor offers excellent opportunities to observe a variety of wintering birds, including the dark eyed junco and other sparrow species. Look for them in areas with dense shrubs and weedy fields.
At Wild Birds Unlimited Colorado, we're passionate about helping you create a welcoming habitat for birds in your backyard. Our knowledgeable staff can provide expert advice on selecting the right feeders, foods, and accessories to attract juncos and other birds to your yard. Visit us at one of our locations in Arvada, Denver, Aurora, or Highlands Ranch!
Ready to welcome the snowbirds? Visit your local Wild Birds Unlimited Colorado store or browse our website today to find everything you need to attract dark-eyed juncos to your yard this winter!
