Winter brings different species to backyards and feeders across Indiana. One of those is the Dark-eyed Junco. Our normal visitor, the slate-colored Dark-eyed Junco, is a handsome bird with sleek gray plumage and a sharp pink bill. Occasionally, a different subspecies will wander into the state, and the Eagle Creek Ornithology Center has been hosting one this winter! An Oregon Dark-eyed Junco has been frequenting their feeders for the past couple of months. This subspecies has a dark hood, a reddish back and light brownish flanks. Be sure to keep an eye out for this cool little bird if you visit the park!
Photo by Amy Hodson