Junco

Junco is a genus of small birds in the family Passerellidae. The genus includes five species of birds that are commonly found in North and Central America. Juncos are known for their distinctive black hood and white outer tail feathers, which distinguish them from other sparrows.

Juncos typically measure between 12 and 14 centimeters in length, weighing between 10 and 14 grams. They have a grey or black back, with a white throat patch and a distinctive black stripe above the chest. Their beak is small and black, and they have a flat, rounded tail.

These birds are known for their ground-dwelling behavior, often foraging for seeds and insects in low vegetation. They are social birds that tend to gather in flocks, especially during migration. Juncos are also known for their distinctive, melodic song, which often begins with a series of whistled notes.

There are five recognized species of junco, including the dark-eyed junco, white-winged junco, slate-colored junco, pink-sided junco, and hemiignathus junco. Each species has different characteristics, such as distinct plumage patterns or beak shapes. Juncos breed in the northern parts of North America, and migrate to the southern parts of the continent in the winter months.

Juncos are primarily seed-eating birds, but they also eat insects, fruits, and nectar. They are often seen feeding on the ground, using their strong legs to scratch and forage for food in a scratch-and-peck manner.