Dark-eyed Junco song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Dark-eyed Junco, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

A simple, musical trill, often described as a 'chi-chi-chi-chi-chi' or 'tew-tew-tew-tew-tew' on a single pitch. The speed and length of the trill can vary. It is typically given by males from an exposed perch during the breeding season.

Calls

Common calls include a sharp 'smack' or 'tsick' contact call, a high-pitched 'seet' alarm call, and a rapid 'chip' or 'tchip' when foraging or agitated. The 'smack' call is often heard when they flush from cover.

When they vocalize

Songs are primarily heard during the breeding season (spring and early summer). Calls are given year-round, especially contact calls within flocks and alarm calls when disturbed.

Explore the Dark-eyed Junco