Cyanocitta cristata

The blue jay is a passerine bird in the family Corvidae, native to eastern North America. The blue jay can be beneficial to other bird species, as it may chase predatory birds such as hawks away. It has also been known to sound an alarm call when hawks or other dangers are near, and smaller birds often recognize this call and hide themselves away accordingly. Blue jays, like other corvids, are highly curious and are considered intelligent birds. They may snatch brightly coloured or reflective objects, such as bottle caps or pieces of aluminum foil, and carry them around until they lose interest. Blue jays are not very picky about nesting locations, and if no better place is available they may even use places like mailboxes.

Our Blue Jay illustration was created by Hazel Cline, graphic designer and illustrator at Lara J Designs.

Visit the Cornell Lab of Ornithology website to see pictures of the Blue Jay and listen to its calls and songs!

Steven Cline

“I chose Blue Jays because I find corvids interesting and intelligent.  A little fun fact: I was also on a Blue Jay baseball team in little league.”