Junco Invasion

Day 174: Dark-eyed Junco (aka Oregon Junco, Junco hyemalis) gets very little press because the species is so common in the Pacific Northwest. I have them here year-'round, but in the spring their numbers increase, especially right after I've weeded the flower beds. I think disturbing the soil must bring seeds to the surface. Yesterday I weeded. Today I have dozens of happy juncos scrabbling in the dirt, visiting the feeders, arguing over spilled seed. They are such cheerful little people that I feel badly for neglecting them in my posts.