Nov. 21, 2025: Dark-eyed Juncos start arriving in Falmouth late October. They travel in loose, shifting flocks, feeding on open ground near cover, maintaining subtle hierarchies, and roosting communally in dense shrubs or evergreens for safety and warmth. This Junco was recently seen near the entry at Peterson Farm.

Dark-eyed Juncos typically begin arriving on Cape Cod in early to mid-October, with numbers building through late October and peaking in November. Small pulses can appear after the first cool fronts, but the main influx follows sustained northerly winds.

Once settled in for the season, juncos display classic loose flocking behavior. They travel and feed in small, shifting groups, often 6 to 20 birds, moving together along field edges, shrub lines, and backyard habitats. These groups are highly dynamic, with birds constantly joining or peeling off.

Within each flock, juncos maintain a clear social hierarchy that influences access to prime feeding spots. Dominance is expressed through quick chases, tail flicking, wing flicks, and short hopping displays. Despite this pecking order, the overall tone is orderly and cooperative.

They favor open ground for feeding, picking seeds, insects, and grit,while staying close to protective cover. As day ends, groups drift toward dense evergreens or thickets, where they roost communally for warmth and safety.