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Cyanocitta cristata (Blue jay)
With its pointed crest and blue, white, and black plumage, this
common songbird is a familiar and noisy presence in much of
North America.
Description
The blue jay measures 9–12 in. (22–30 cm) from bill to tail and
weighs 2.5–3.5 oz. (70–100 g), with a wingspan of 13–17 in.
(34–43 cm).
Behavior
Although they have been known to eat eggs, and enjoy the
occasional caterpillar, grasshopper, or beetle, blue jays are
largely vegetarian and their diet consists mainly of acorns,
nuts, and seeds. They are social in nature and are typically
found in pairs, family groups, or small flocks. Although young
blue jays are more likely to migrate than adults, much about
their migratory behavior remains a mystery.
Did you know?
Blue jays are especially fond of acorns and are credited with
helping to spread oak trees after the last glacial period.
Blue jays are capable of a wide variety of sounds, including
excellent imitations of several hawk calls.
As a moderately slow flier, blue jays are easy prey for faster-
flying predators such as hawks and owls.
Blue jays typically form stable mating pairs for life, and both
sexes build the nest and rear the young.
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