What Do Dark-Eyed Juncos Eat? Understanding Their Diet

Dark-eyed Juncos (Junco hyemalis) are small, charming birds known for their crisp plumage and active foraging behavior. Often called "snowbirds" because they appear in backyards during winter, these birds have a diverse diet that helps them thrive in various habitats. In this blog, we’ll explore what Dark-eyed Juncos eat, how they find food, and how you can attract them to your yard.

1. Primarily Seed Eaters

Dark-eyed Juncos are primarily granivores, meaning they rely heavily on seeds for food. Seeds make up the majority of their diet, especially in winter when other food sources become scarce.

2. Favorite Seeds

Juncos prefer small, easily digestible seeds, including:

• Millet
• Sunflower seeds (especially hulled ones)
• Cracked corn
• Nyjer (thistle) seeds
• Canary seed

These seeds provide essential energy, particularly in cold months when they need extra calories to stay warm.

3. Foraging on the Ground

Unlike some birds that prefer feeders, Dark-eyed Juncos are ground foragers. They hop and scratch at the soil or snow, searching for fallen seeds. They are often seen beneath feeders, picking up seeds that other birds drop.

4. Insects During Breeding Season

Although seeds dominate their diet, Dark-eyed Juncos eat more insects during the spring and summer breeding season to get extra protein for raising their young. Their insect diet includes:

• Caterpillars
• Beetles
• Ants
• Grasshoppers
• Spiders

This protein-rich diet helps fuel the rapid growth of their chicks.

5. Feeding Behavior in Winter

During the colder months, juncos shift to a more seed-heavy diet and often join mixed flocks with sparrows and finches. They can be seen foraging under bushes, near buildings, or along roadsides where seeds are more accessible.

6. Enjoying Backyard Feeders

If you want to attract Dark-eyed Juncos to your yard, try:

• Ground feeding stations (scatter seeds directly on the ground or a low platform).
• Tray or hopper feeders (as they prefer stable surfaces over hanging feeders).
• Providing mixed seed blends with millet, sunflower chips, and cracked corn.

They tend to avoid large seeds, like whole sunflower seeds with shells, since they have small beaks.

7. Grit Helps Them Digest Seeds

Like many seed-eating birds, Dark-eyed Juncos consume small pebbles or grit, which helps break down seeds in their gizzard. This improves digestion and allows them to extract more nutrients from their food.

8. They Occasionally Eat Berries

While not a major part of their diet, juncos sometimes eat small berries and fruits in late summer and fall, especially when seeds are less available. They may nibble on:

• Wild berries
• Small fruits from shrubs
• Soft grains

9. Water Is Important

Dark-eyed Juncos need a consistent water source, especially in winter when natural sources freeze. If you want to support them, consider providing a heated birdbath during cold months.

10. Natural Food Sources Help Sustain Them

Planting native shrubs and trees that produce seeds and berries can provide a long-term food source for juncos. They also appreciate leaf litter and natural ground cover, which can harbor insects and fallen seeds.

Conclusion

Dark-eyed Juncos are resilient birds that thrive on a diet of seeds, insects, and occasional berries. Whether they’re scratching at the snow for fallen seeds or fluttering beneath feeders, these winter visitors bring life and activity to backyards across North America. By offering the right food and habitat, you can enjoy their presence and help support them through every season.