This small, dark-headed sparrow flashing white outer tail feathers is one of the state's most abundant species and one of the easiest to identify.

When not nesting, the Dark-eyed junco might be seen nearly anywhere in the state. It is a regular visitor to city parks and neighborhood bird feeders.

Most juncos occurring in Oregon show dark hoods, dull rusty-brown backs, and pinkish brown below the wings. Some are grayish, lacking much of the brown tones.

They are most often observed in single-species flocks but individuals and small groups often join mixed wintering sparrow flocks. It is resident from the Columbia River south to Douglas County and from the Cascades to the coast. There is some southward movement in winter.

Hear the song of the Dark-eyed junco

Photo by Bob Swingle, ODFW