We do have winter visitors to our backyards in Broad Ripple and the surrounding area-just like Arizona and Florida. Check under your feeder or in the grass or snow in your yard. The Dark-eyed Junco can be found in the summer, but as soon as the temperatures begin to fall, the juncos arrive to spend the winter. They are slate-colored with a gray upperparts, darker gray hood, and a white belly. The males sing a sweet, high-pitched trill. Download the app Merlin, record the sounds in your yard, and it will identify what you are hearing.

Juncos are ground feeders and enjoy millet, sunflowers, and cracked corn. They are the perfect foragers for seed that has fallen below your bird feeder. At snow-covered times, sprinkle seeds on the ground for more abundant feeding. Although they will usually roost in shrubs and pines in your yard, they will often avail themselves to a roost box if offered. Enjoy the Dark-eyed Junco because they will leave in the warmer season.