Ellen Rayl, a passionate bird enthusiast, recently shared captivating insights about the charismatic California scrub-jay, a stunning member of the corvid family. Previously recognized as the western scrub-jay, this species underwent a taxonomic split in 2016, resulting in Woodhouse's and California scrub-jays. Dressed in vibrant blue plumage with a white underbelly and a gray back patch, both male and female birds exude an undeniable allure. Unlike their blue jay counterparts, they lack a distinctive head crest. These avian wonders measure approximately 11 1/2 inches in length and boast an impressive wingspan of 15 1/2 inches. Additionally, Ellen delved into the fascinating world of the California scrub-jay's nests and eggs, shedding light on their nesting behaviors and unique characteristics.
The California scrub-jay is a skilled nest builder, using twigs to create a sturdy structure in a nearby tree or shrub. Once complete, the female lays three to six eggs that are green or gray spotted. These birds are known for their resilience in cold weather and their inquisitive nature. If you listen closely, you may hear the distinct call of the California scrub-jay.
Brian Bailey shared a photo of an acorn woodpecker and a scrub-jay, two birds known for their distinct calls. The acorn woodpecker’s call is described as “shreeeenk” or a quick repetition of “quay” or “cheek.” Meanwhile, the scrub-jay makes scolding sounds but also sings soft, melodic songs when with its partner, similar to other jay species. As for their diet, California scrub-jays feed on a variety of foods.
To entice California scrub-jays to your backyard, you can offer them a variety of foods such as peanuts, peanut butter, suet, sunflower seeds and cracked corn. These birds are omnivorous and consume nuts, fruits, insects and small animals. If you’re lucky enough to attract them, you might hear their distinct vocalizations. Sandeep Dhar from San Diego, California captured a photo of a jay with an acorn in its beak settling on an outer branch of a coast live oak, before flying away. Keep in mind that the range of California scrub-jays is limited to certain areas, so it’s important to check their habitat map to see if they’re native to your region.
In 2016, Western scrub-jays were classified into two distinct species, namely Woodhouse’s and California. These birds can be spotted in various locations such as oak woods, pinyon-juniper woods, parks, shrubby areas, and even backyards. They are primarily found in coastal regions of the western part of the United States.
In many western backyards, these birds have replaced the blue jay. However, their close relative, the island scrub-jay, can only be found on Santa Cruz Island in California. It is interesting to note that the range of blue jays is expanding westward. Range maps are available from Kaufman Field Guides, the official field guide of Birds & Blooms.
