Where in the World is the Dark Eyed Junco?

Has He Taken the Snow and Flown the Coop?

I see the comments on my articles The Budding Question of Buds and Spring is Coming. Everyone is anxious for spring to visibly arrive and for the snow to melt. But, how much longer is that? How will we know when the time for snow has past?

Here in S.W. Missouri there is no snow left on the ground. But does that mean it is gone for the season? The answer to that question may be found with the answer of another question. Where in the world is the Dark Eyed Junco?

Before winter snows arrive the appearance of the Dark Eyed Junco to my yard in inevitable. Within days of his arrival, I can count on the first snowfall of winter.

Does this mean that when the tiny gray bird migrates back to the north that he takes the snow with him? The short answer is, yes he does. Many people I know think of the American Robin as the first sign of spring. However, here in S.W. Missouri the Robin may over-winter in my yard. So, for me, it is the Dark Eyed Junco that tells the tale.

Yesterday, I started wondering if the little guy was still around, lurking in his habitat at the edge of the woods. He loves the conifers and tall grasses we let grow along the borders of our forest. He frequents the feeders we have in our yard. I often see a flock of juncos when I drive down my driveway in the winter months. Yet recently, I haven't noticed him in any of his usual hang-outs. Has he packed up and headed for Chicago? I heard they were bracing for another winter storm.

I decided a walk around my property was in order. I would solve the mystery and answer my questions. Since the flash floods have been so prominent, I haven't been driving much, so I haven't had a need to use my driveway. Are the juncos still using my driveway for a dust bath? As I strolled down my driveway, I didn't see any, basking in the warmth of the sun. They aren't coming to the feeders when I'm outside, so where are they?

I walked the edge of my woods. I knew there were tics out there, but I would not let that keep me from my quest. I could deal with that issue later. Rabbits scurried to and from various brush piles we have created for them. But there was no sign of the junco.