Blue Jay
NameBlue Jay
Common NameBlue Jay
Scientific NameCyanocitta cristata
FamilyCorvidae
Wingspan (cm)34
Length (cm)28
Weight (g)85
Plumage DetailsBright blue on the back, wings, and tail, with a white face and underparts. It features a distinctive black necklace across the throat and nape, and black barring on the wings and tail, often with white wing bars and white tips on the tail feathers. It has a prominent blue crest that can be raised or lowered.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a wide variety of vocalizations, including the loud, harsh 'jay jay' call, musical whistles, and alarm calls. They are also excellent mimics, often imitating the calls of hawks, especially the Red-shouldered Hawk.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, suburban, park, garden
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in eastern and central North America, from southern Canada through the eastern United States to Florida and northeastern Texas.
Identifying FeaturesVibrant blue plumage, Prominent blue crest, Black necklace across throat, White face and underparts, Black barring and white patches on wings and tail, Loud, varied calls, including mimicry
Description
The Blue Jay is a striking songbird known for its vibrant blue, white, and black plumage and prominent crest. These intelligent and vocal birds are often found in eastern and central North American forests and suburban areas, where they are known for their complex social structures and ability to mimic other bird calls.
