Volcano Junco
NameVolcano Junco
Common NameVolcano Junco
Scientific NameJunco vulcani
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsThe head, throat, and breast are dark slate-gray, fading to a paler gray on the belly. The back and wings are streaked brown and blackish, with rufous edgings on the flight feathers. The most distinctive feature is the bright yellow iris. The bill is pale pinkish-horn.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of high-pitched, thin, tinkling notes, often accelerating. Calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'tseet' sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Talamanca mountain range, found in high-altitude páramo and subalpine scrub zones of Costa Rica and western Panama.
Identifying Featuresbright yellow eyes, dark slate-gray head and breast, streaked brown back, pale pinkish bill, high-altitude habitat
Description
The Volcano Junco is a small, striking sparrow found in high-altitude habitats. It is easily identified by its dark slate-gray head and breast, contrasting with a streaked brown back and bright yellow eyes. This species typically forages on the ground among dense vegetation.
