Scientific Name:
Aphelocoma californica
Description
Up to 29 cm/11.4 inches in length with blue, brown, and gray plummage and a strong black beak.
Behaviors
Often found high in the treetops, the California scrub jay can be heard squawking loudly in defense of its territory or to sound an alert to the presence of predators. Diet is mostly vegetarian, consisting of seeds, acorns, and berries, but will occasionally consume insects.
Fun Facts
Secret stash! The California scrub jay stores food (called a "cache") in many locations in its habitat during the year. A remarkable memory allows it to locate these caches many months later.
Nature Topics
Photo credit: ©Kip Evans
