Mt. Mitchell Juncos? (1 Viewer)

[Fandango739]

I was just at the summit of Mt. Mitchell and saw Dark-eyed Juncos. Thing is, they seemed a bit paler than those at lower elevation, particularly the females. Has anyone else noticed this or is this just a random observation?

Thanks.

 

[Hamhed]

My wife and I were on the Commissary Trail just below the summit last week. We saw a few Juncos, none of which seemed out of the normal color range. Females are not a deep dark as are the males and there are still young juncos which are also not as dark but also streaked on the underparts.
I haven’t heard any other reports of odd colorations in that location.
You may be familiar with the overlook on the Parkway at the beginning of the entrance road (Rt 128) known as Ridge Junction. This is a favorite destination for birders this time of year including birding guides who may have further input on the junco subject. Even if you don’t connect with a knowledgeable birder with other opinions, the birding there is often pretty fabulous.

Steve