End of the Dark-eyed Junco Season in my backyard

Dark-eyed Juncos, frequent visitors in March and early April, are now rare sights in my Regina, SK, backyard. Most have moved on, continuing their summer migration to forests north of here.

Dark-eyed Junco, one of the last to visit my Regina, SK, backyard this spring. 

And yes, I'm always happy to see new spring birds arriving — yet sad to see the Juncos go.


What is this? Dark-eyed Junco — Junco ardoisé.
Location: Backyard, Regina, Saskatchewan
Photo date: April 25, 2016.

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Juncos Return to Regina, SK

Juncos have been flocking in our Regina, SK, backyard for the past two weeks — although perhaps flock is an overstatement for groups on three, five or seven birds! We're on the migratory path for Dark-eyed (Slate-coloured) Juncos, and look forward to these clean-cut birds stopping in to feed in spring and fall.

Sharp contrast Junco - dark gray and white with pink bill.
The under colouring blends well with snow © SB

This year, there was still snow when they arrived, so I had a chance to enjoy the Dark-eyed Juncos pretty protective colouring with both light and neutral contrast. Seen in snow, what struck me was how perfectly their white chest feathers blended with that background; in early grass and dirt, their back and wing feathers blended oh so well.

The lighter gray famale Junco has softer brownish feathers on her back.
The upper feathers blend well with the grass and scattered seeds ©SB

What are these? Juncos (Dark-eyed, Slate-coloured group) 
Location: Backyard, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada 
Photo dates: April 8 and 10, 2015

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