Pinyon Jay
NamePinyon Jay
Common NamePinyon Jay
Scientific NameGymnorhinus cyanocephalus
FamilyCorvidae
Wingspan (cm)40.5
Length (cm)27.5
Weight (g)95
Plumage DetailsOverall dull blue plumage, slightly darker on the head and upperparts, becoming paler on the throat and belly. There are no prominent markings or crests.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations are varied and often described as nasal, high-pitched 'kraw' or 'kweep' calls. They are known for their noisy, chattering calls, especially when in flocks.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound in western North America, primarily in the pinyon-juniper woodlands of the Great Basin and Southwest, extending from Oregon, Idaho, and Montana south through California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and parts of Texas and Oklahoma.
Identifying FeaturesAll-blue plumage, Stout, pointed black bill, Relatively short tail, Highly social, often in large flocks, Association with pinyon-juniper woodlands
Description
The Pinyon Jay is a highly social, medium-sized bird with a dull blue plumage and a stout, pointed bill. It is strongly associated with pinyon-juniper woodlands, where it forages for pine nuts and other food items, often in large, noisy flocks.
