Volcano Junco

The volcano junco (Junco vulcani) is a New World sparrow, a small bird with a robust build that is endemic to the high-altitude Talamancan montane forests of Costa Rica and western Panama. It is characterized by its brown upperparts with dark streaking, particularly pronounced on the back, and grey underparts. The wings and tail feathers are edged in dark hues. A distinctive black mask runs through the eye, set against the grey sides of the head, complemented by a yellow iris, and a pink bill and legs. Adults measure on average 16 cm in length and weigh around 28 grams.

Identification Tips

When identifying the volcano junco, look for the bird's grey underparts and the dark streaking on brown upperparts. The black mask through the eye, yellow iris, and pink bill and legs are key features. Juveniles can be recognized by their brighter brown upperparts with more pronounced black streaking and buff-grey underparts.

Habitat

This species thrives in open grassy or brushy areas with some stunted scrubs, typically found above the timberline at altitudes exceeding 3,000 meters. However, due to forest clearance, such as on Cerro de la Muerte, the volcano junco has been observed at lower altitudes down to 2,600 meters.

Distribution

The volcano junco is a highland bird, endemic to the Talamancan montane forests. It is found at elevations typically above 3,000 meters, with an isolated population at 2,100 meters on the Caribbean slope of Costa Rica.

Behaviour

The volcano junco is a ground feeder, known for its running and hopping movements. It tends to fly only short distances. This bird is often seen foraging for seeds, fallen berries, insects, and spiders on the ground.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the volcano junco includes a thin "tseee" or a clearer "wheew" call. Its song is an eclectic mix of squeaks and buzzes, which can be transcribed as "k'chew chu k'wee chip chip chueee."

Breeding

Breeding volcano juncos construct a neat, lined cup for a nest on the ground, well-hidden under a log, bush, or rock, or within a cavity on a vegetated bank. The female lays a clutch of two pale blue eggs, adorned with brown spots.

Similar Species

While there are no specific similar species mentioned, it is important to differentiate the volcano junco from other junco species by its unique high-altitude habitat and the specific coloration patterns of its plumage.

Diet and Feeding

The volcano junco's diet consists of seeds, fallen berries, insects, and spiders. It forages primarily on the ground, employing its adept running and hopping skills to navigate its terrain.

Conservation status

The volcano junco is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers that would warrant a higher level of concern.