Dark-eyed Junco

Start with these clues

Watch for white outer tail feathers when it takes flight.

Relative size

Small

Look around

Lawn, Shrubs

Region and season

Many populations move seasonally; several plumage forms occur.

Compare carefully

Other sparrows may have pale tails but differ in pattern.

A photograph shows one individual and one view. Check several features, the date and a regional guide before settling on an identification.

Read the Audubon species account for fuller range, behavior and identification context.