The volcano junco is a New World sparrow endemic to the Talamancan montane forests of Costa Rica and western Panama.
Region
Talamanca Mountains
Typical Environment
Occupies high-elevation shrublands, open grass–shrub mosaics, volcanic ash slopes, and edges of elfin forest above treeline. Common around exposed summit areas and disturbed openings, including roadcuts and parking areas on volcanoes such as Irazú, Turrialba, Poás, and Chirripó in Costa Rica and Volcán Barú in western Panama. Uses dense bunchgrasses and low bamboo for cover and nesting. Outside the breeding season, it forages more widely in open ground but remains tied to high montane habitats.
Altitude Range
2600–3800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The volcano junco is a high-elevation sparrow found on the windswept volcanoes and páramo of Costa Rica and western Panama. It is easily recognized by its bright yellow eye and pink bill, and is often remarkably tame around parking areas and trails near volcano summits. Like other juncos, it flashes white outer tail feathers in flight. Nests are typically hidden on or near the ground among grass tussocks or low shrubs.
Temperament
alert and often tame; territorial in breeding season
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups; forms loose foraging parties outside the breeding season. Nests are cup-shaped and placed on or near the ground under grasses or low shrubs. Both parents attend young, and adults will perform distraction displays near nests.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a simple, bright series of trills and tinkling notes delivered from low shrubs, rocks, or fence posts. Calls include sharp chips and thin, high tseets used in contact and alarm.
