The Blue Jay

The blue jay is a majestic but aggressive bird that can be found throughout most of the United States. It measures 9-12 inches in length, has a wingspan of 34-43 cm, and weighs between 2.5 and 3.5 oz. The bird is a shining blue with a white belly. The blue jay also possesses a crest not eh top of its head that shows how hostile or not hostile the bird is. If the crest is pointed upwards, the bird is in a hostile state. If the crest is flat, the bird is in a docile state of mind. Blue jays have the unique ability to communicate through this body language as well as having a large range of vocalizations. In addition, the blue jay snacks on mainly insects and seeds. Occasionally it finds itself wandering into another nest for other eggs, but this activity is rare. Blue jays reside on the edges of forests and can be found in both suburban and even urban areas. It prefers to build nests in oak trees and bird feeders are a huge attraction. Blue jays are able to mimic the screech of a hawk to scare other birds away from feeders, making resources easier to exploit. Due to the blue jay's ability to mimic other birds and their territorial behavior, they are not in danger. However, studies have shown a 28% population decline from 1996-2015. Scientists have their eye on this decline and are making sincere efforts to prevent any further decline.