Dark-eyed Junco

Several Dark-eyed Juncos and an American Robin enjoy an icy pool of water on a chilly winter morning.

NPS Photo/Bethany Burnett

Dark-eyed Juncos overwinter at Abó and can frequently be seen near the arroyo on the paved 0.5 mile loop trail. They are medium-sized sparrows, and there are several different forms; at Abó, we frequently see the Oregon, Gray-headed, and Slate-colored forms. In the morning, they often gather at the pools of water, regardless of ice.

 

The white tail feathers of a Dark-eyed Junco can be seen as it flies away.

NPS Photo/Bethany Burnett

Although it can be tough to get a good look at birds in flight, Dark-eyed Juncos can be recognized by spotting white in their tails as they fly away. They are frequently seen in flocks, either in the juniper trees or on the ground.