Yellow-eyed Junco
NameYellow-eyed Junco
Common NameYellow-eyed Junco
Scientific NameJunco phaeonotus
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)24
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)16
Plumage DetailsAdults have a dark gray head, throat, and chest, with a contrasting bright yellow eye. The back and scapulars are rusty-brown, while the flanks are gray and the belly is white. The bill is bicolored, with a dark upper mandible and a pale yellow lower mandible.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a sweet, musical trill, often described as a series of repeated notes. Calls include sharp 'chip' notes and a high-pitched 'seet' call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in mountainous regions from the southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico) south through Mexico and into Central America (Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras).
Identifying Featuresbright yellow eyes, dark gray head and chest, rusty-brown back, bicolored bill (dark upper, pale lower mandible), white belly
Description
This small, striking sparrow is characterized by its bright yellow eyes, contrasting with a dark gray head and chest. It typically forages on the ground in montane forests, often in small flocks, searching for seeds and insects.
