Description

Distinguishing Features - Slightly larger than a robin. Blue back and head with black neck band; grey-white underneath with white-spotted wings and tail. Head is adorned with characteristic blue crest. Male and female indistinguishable but female is slightly smaller.

Size - 28 - 32 cm (11.25 - 12.75 in).

Habitat

Mixed and deciduous stands and parklands around inhabited areas.

Nesting

Most often in coniferous trees. Bulky nest consists of sticks, moss, lichens, grasses and various soft items; lined with grass and feathers. Eggs, usually 4 - 6; buff to greenish or bluish with small spots and brown or olive blotches. Incubation period 17 - 18 days.

Notes

The Blue Jay is handsome, but noisy, mischievous, and inquisitive adding life to a forest at any time of the year, especially in winter when most other birds have moved south. Its raucous Jay, Jaycalls and Too-wheedle, Too-wheedle whistles are heard all times of the year, but is often noisiest in the autumn. The Blue Jay is omnivorous with a diet of fruits, insects, grains, and acorns, but, unfortunately, sometimes the eggs and nestlings of other birds.

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