Dark-eyed Junco Watching in Oregon

The Dark-eyed Junco is a small member of the Sparrow family that mostly breeds and spends summers in northern Canada, but many are known to live year round in Oregon. East of the Willamette River they are normally only found during the winter months, but conditions in the western part of the state are suitable all year long. Normally about 6 inches long in maturity and primarily a grayish color, the Dark-eyed Junco mostly eats insects and forages on or near the ground. In summers they also eat insects, and they are fond of millet in backyard feeding stations all year round.

Habitats for Dark-eyed Juncos

During their winters in Oregon they can be found in a wide variety of habitats. Look for them in open woodlands and in parks as well as in backyard gardens. Those who live year round near the coast will spend summers mostly in coniferous and mixed forests. They are commonly found in the Tualatin National Wildlife Refuge most of the year, but in smaller numbers during summer.

Best seasons to see Dark-eyed Juncos in Oregon

The Dark-eyed Juncos that breed in Canada usually begin arriving in Oregon during November and depart again in March, but along the coast you can find these birds all year round.

Dark-eyed Juncos in Oregon summary

Typical habitat: Woodlands, parks, gardens
Seasons: November through March, and year-round on the coast
Abundance: Common in the right habitat

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