March 1, 2021: Juncos and Sparrows
Winter is about to lose its icy, cold grip. Most of our walking paths are
visible again, and yes–you can hear birds singing. A subtle sign that spring is just around the corner.
Two of our visitors from the north can be seen busily rummaging through the shrubs and on the ground. The Dark-Eyed Junco–a small grey and white bird–darts off, giving a sharp twittering call as it flashes the white outer feathers of its tail. Often referred to as snow birds, watch for their disappearance from your feeder areas as they make their trip north for breeding season.
Frequently seen in the company of Juncos is the White-Throated Sparrow—a large plump bird. As its name implies, it has a white throat and white- and black-striped head with visible yellow dots located over each eye. One of its most distinguishing characteristics is its call. Listen for a distinctive whistling sound from the tops of the trees……..“Old Sam Peabody-Peabody” or I think I hear…….“Oh Canada – Oh Canada -Oh Canada”.
Happy Birding!!