Eurasian Jay
Eurasian Jay
20
11 hours ago
+15
The Eurasian Jay, scientifically known as Garrulus glandarius, is a striking member of the crow family (Corvidae) renowned for its intelligence and vibrant plumage. Found across a vast range from Western Europe to Eastern Asia, this highly adaptable omnivore is best known for its habit of caching acorns and other nuts, playing a crucial role in seed dispersal. Despite its bright colors, it often remains elusive, preferring the cover of dense woodlands.
Where to spot
Eurasian Jays prefer deciduous and mixed woodlands, parks, large gardens, and orchards, particularly where oak trees are present due to their reliance on acorns. They can also be found in coniferous forests. Look for them in areas with ample tree cover, often near the edges or clearings.
How to spot
Listen for their distinctive, harsh, and often varied calls, including a loud, scolding 'skraaak' or a more musical, almost cat-like 'kyarr'. They are known for mimicking other birds and even human sounds. They are often shy, so spotting them requires patience; look for movement high in the canopy or listen for the rustling of leaves as they forage on the ground. Their bright blue wing patches are a key identifier in flight or when perched. They can be seen hopping on the ground searching for food or flying between trees with a distinctive undulating flight.
When to spot
Eurasian Jays are most active during the day, from dawn to dusk. They are visible year-round in most parts of their range as they are largely resident. Autumn is an excellent time to observe them as they are busy caching acorns for winter, making them more conspicuous. In winter, they may be seen visiting bird feeders in more urbanized areas if natural food sources are scarce.
Where to spot
Eurasian Jays prefer deciduous and mixed woodlands, parks, large gardens, and orchards, particularly where oak trees are present due to their reliance on acorns. They can also be found in coniferous forests. Look for them in areas with ample tree cover, often near the edges or clearings.
How to spot
Listen for their distinctive, harsh, and often varied calls, including a loud, scolding 'skraaak' or a more musical, almost cat-like 'kyarr'. They are known for mimicking other birds and even human sounds. They are often shy, so spotting them requires patience; look for movement high in the canopy or listen for the rustling of leaves as they forage on the ground. Their bright blue wing patches are a key identifier in flight or when perched. They can be seen hopping on the ground searching for food or flying between trees with a distinctive undulating flight.
When to spot
Eurasian Jays are most active during the day, from dawn to dusk. They are visible year-round in most parts of their range as they are largely resident. Autumn is an excellent time to observe them as they are busy caching acorns for winter, making them more conspicuous. In winter, they may be seen visiting bird feeders in more urbanized areas if natural food sources are scarce.
Credits:
Takashi_Yanagisawa
Credits:
YvonneHuijbens
Credits:
ntrief
Credits:
ntrief
Credits:
ASPhotohrapy
The Eurasian Jay is an exceptional mimic, capable of imitating a wide range of bird calls, human voices, and even the sounds of domestic animals, making it one of the most vocally versatile birds in its family.
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Spotted
- Recently spotted
- 14823 (Seen in the last 3 months)
- Last spotted
- 11 hours ago
Monthly observations
75 observations
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