In the normal progression of fall migration, October is when northern sparrows arrive in the Pittsburgh area.
I’ve already seen my first white-throated and white-crowned sparrows, but I haven’t seen a dark-eyed junco yet.
Some people call juncoes “snowbirds” because they arrive with the first snow. Fortunately our juncoes get here before that happens.
I’m waiting for snowbirds, but not for snow.
(photo by Cris Hamilton)
UPDATE: First junco in my yard this fall appeared on Oct 29 after the rain. Then a pause and today (Oct 31) I have 2 juncoes.
Heard last Sunday, but on the deck yesterday morning…White-throated Sparrows were on the deck eating last night…
My juncoes showed up Thursday the 23 rd mid afternoon! Earliest was in ’89 on October 1st and latest on November 13 in ’00.
Saw several juncos on the rail trail at Ohiopyle on Friday 10/23.
I saw a junco this past Thursday, as well – quite literally “outside my window.” 🙂
Saw first junco oct 12. Early for me; usually not seen till around out 24-26.
Saw my first junco this morning in Hampton Township.