western scrub jay
1. Bird Name: Western Scrub Jay
Scientific Name: Aphelocoma californica
2. Appearance:
The Western Scrub Jay has striking colors ranging from fierce blue, dusty gray to subdued white. Its most distinctive feature is its sheer blue wings and tail contrasted sharply by a grayish-brown or pewter upper part. The undersides are generally whitish gray. The stout beak, prominently angular, is black. Eyes are typically dark. Both males and females possess the same plumage, with no notable differences, making it a true monomorphic species.
3. Size:
The average length of the Western Scrub Jay varies between 9 to 12 inches (23 to 31 cm). The wingspan is typically around 15 inches (38 cm). The weight can range between 2.5 to 3.5 ounces (70–100 grams).
4. Habitat & Distribution:
The Western Scrub Jay inhabits the dry, open, shrubby areas, and the low-lying woodland areas of the west coast of North America. It spreads across central Texas and Florida, moving as far north as Washington state and covers parts of Mexico too. This bird species prefers oak woodlands, grain fields, residential areas, and, storehouses where food is abundant.
5. Interesting Facts:
The Western Scrub Jay is the only species of bird known to plan for the future. It hoards food in scattered caches for later times. Interestingly, it can also remember what it stashed and where, even after months. To protect their food, they are known for their trickster behavior and often fake food-burying acts if they think they are being observed by other birds.
6. Diet:
Western Scrub Jays are omnivorous and their diet varies seasonally. They mainly feed on insects, seeds, grains, berries, small animals like lizards, frogs, and even the eggs or nestlings of other birds.
7. Behavior & Sounds:
These birds are known for their raucous behavior and ‘jay’ calls. They’re also well-known for tool use; known to use twigs or other small items to extract food from unreachable places. Their song varies, but it’s typically a harsh and raspy screech, sounding like ‘jay’ or ‘check.’
8. Conservation Status:
The Western Scrub Jay is listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List. It enjoys a wide geographic range with stable numbers, and does not currently face any significant threats.
9. Lifespan:
The Western Scrub Jay generally lives up to 9 years in the wild. However, a few recorded instances show them living upwards of 15 years.
10. Additional Notes:
Locally, the Western Scrub Jay is also known as ‘Long-tailed Jay’ or ‘Coastal Jay.’ Humans often see them as intelligent but pesky neighbors due to their loud calls and habits of stealing food. Nevertheless, they play a crucial role in their ecosystems as they help in seed dispersal, especially of hard-shelled oak seeds. They also help regulate the population of insects and smaller animals. Their curiosity and boldness allow them to adapt well to changes in their environment.
