Steller’s Jay Cyanocitta stelleri
California, various dates

The distinctive Steller’s Jay typically lives in flocks of greater than 10 individuals and occurs in coniferous and mixed woodland over virtually the whole of the western side of North America from Alaska in the north to Central America in the far south and east to south-western Texas, completely replacing its close relative the Blue Jay Cyanocitta cristata in most of those areas. The Blue Jay is expanding its range westward though and where they meet the two species occasionally interbreed and produce hybrids (eg hybridisation in Colorado has been reported).

Steller’s Jays have expanded into a wider variety of habitats within the past 20 years, and are now more common in towns and cities than they previously were. Development and forestry both generally benefit Steller’s Jays, and the Christmas Bird Count and the Breeding Bird Survey have recorded increases in some States in recent years. It’s a species that shows a great deal of variation in appearance throughout its wide range, with some populations featuring black crests and backs, and others blue (apparently one black-crested form in southern Mexico is surrounded by eight other blue-crested forms). Inland forms show a variably-sized pale spot over the eye and reduced amount of blue colouration. Young birds have shorter crests than adults and are browner overall.

Like many jays this species is omnivorous, eating everything from fruit and berries to eggs, young birds, carrion, and even garbage. Well known as being extremely bold around campsites and picnic areas in search of scraps these are highly vocal and showy birds outside of the nesting season, but when raising young Steller’s Jays can become surprisingly quiet and inconspicuous.

Note the distinctive silhouette caused by the ragged, erect crest. June, near San Jose, California

 

 

Same bird. June, near San Jose, California

 

 

August, Alum Rock Park, near San Jose, California

 

Juvenile, August, Alum Rock Park, near San Jose, Californa. Note shorter crest, and brower tones.

 

“Inland form”, January. Hurkey Creek, San Jacinto Mountains, California

Photos copyright Charlie Moores