BLUE JAY

Cyanocitta cristata

The Blue Jay is a species of Passerine in the Family Corvidae. They are one of the most common birds in the United States, found across the Eastern part of the continent. They measure about 10 In (30 Cm) long and has a vibrant blue flight feathers which are decorated with black bands. The blue comes from the microscopic structure of the feathers, which distort the light bouncing off of them. In reality, these feathers are a dark, dull brown. The plumage covering its underside and face are white. The beak is slender and pointed, allowing them to stab and crack seeds. The Blue Jay has a distinctive, high pitched scream.

The Blue Jay is an aggressive and territorial bird, chasing off intruders by screaming and chasing them. They are even known to attack large threats, including humans. They are often observed chasing other individuals off of feeders. Blue Jays, as well as many other Corvids are considered some of the most intelligent birds. Although only observed in captivity, the Blue Jay has been seen using strips of newspaper to grab food from outside of a cage. They are extremely curious and investigative creatures. Young Jays are interested by small, shiny objects such as bottle caps or foil. They play with the object until the lose interest or find something else to play with. The Blue Jay has great memory and is able to remember the location of buried food for months.

Blue Jays feed on seeds, nuts, berries and small invertebrates. They crack seeds open by holding the seed onto a hard surface. They proceed to stab the seed with their beak. Once opened, the bird feeds on the soft inside. They are known to hoard food during the winter, burying it underground. They are able to remember where they buried food for long periods of time.