A Slate-colored Dark-eyed Junco enchanted me with soft calls and a subtle appearance. They bring joy to any outdoor scene anywhere, in any season. I adore them.

A few days ago, I had Dark-eyed Juncos in my viewfinder off and on all morning long. Some were too far away, but a few were close enough to photograph.

Slate-colored Dark-eyed Junco in autumn, Sebastian County, ArkansasSlate-colored Dark-eyed Junco in autumn – Canon R7, f9, 1/400, ISO 2000, +0.3 EV, Canon EF 100-400mm II at 400mm, natural light

I’m almost tempted to call Dark-eyed Juncos sweet, but I don’t like the word “sweet” much at all unless it’s used in connection with dessert.

Besides, I’ve seen these small sparrows get feisty at the feeders often enough to respect their ability to stand their ground. And those aerial chases they do at times?

Wow, just wow. They aren’t intimidated by other juncos. At all.

Slate-colored Dark-eyed Junco in Arkansas, Sebastian CountySlate-colored Dark-eyed Junco in Arkansas – Canon R7, f9, 1/400, ISO 1600, +0.3 EV, Canon EF 100-400mm II at 400mm, natural light

These Slate-colored Dark-eyed Junco photos were taken thirty-six minutes apart. It may be the same junco, or it might be a different one. There is no way for me to be certain.

Slate-colored Dark-eyed Juncos are winter visitors to Arkansas, bringing a touch of northern charm to the state’s landscape. Here are some key points about these birds in Arkansas.

For bird enthusiasts in Arkansas, the arrival of Slate-colored Dark-eyed Juncos is a welcome sign of the changing seasons, providing a delightful subject for observation and photography throughout the late fall, winter, and early spring.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to view more of my Dark-eyed Junco photos plus facts and information about this species.