Western Scrub-Jay

Aphelocoma californica

Like all jays, this species may be secretive and silent around its nest but is frequently noisy and conspicuous. Scrub-jays often eat the eggs or young of other birds, but in summer they mainly eat insects. These birds also eat acorns, and bury stores of them to eat later. The jays bury many more acorns than they can eat and have actually helped plant oak forests that had been destroyed by fire or drought.

Look For : Blue head, tail, and wings with white belly. Has no crest.

Length : 11-13".

Habitat : Scrub and brush, open and desert country.

Range : Western regions.