Species profile
Blue Jay
Cyanocitta cristata
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Corvidae
- Conservation status
- Not assessed here
identification
Large crested bird with blue upperparts, white underparts, a black necklace, and barred wings and tail.
habitat
Oak woods, forest edges, towns, parks, and backyards.
range
Resident or short-distance migrant across eastern and central North America.
behavior
Bold and vocal; carries food away to cache and can imitate hawk calls.
diet
Acorns, seeds, insects, fruit, and occasional eggs.
voice
Loud jeer calls, whistles, clicks, and imitations.
seasonality
Resident or seasonal migrant depending on region.
Related species
Sources
Taxonomy, identification, natural history, and conservation references. Follow source links for current assessments.