• Dark-eyed Junco

    Arb Notes for February, 27, 2009: Juncos!

    If you’ve spent any time in the Arb this winter, you’ve likely seen a dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis). If not, you’ve undoubtedly heard one—a call often described as a high,  smacking ‘stip’ emerging from the ground below stands of dense vegetation.  One of the most common birds during the winter months in Minnesota, juncos are at first glance the least worthy of a column in the Carletonian—common, drab, begging for an yawn-inspiring article.