The blue jay is a bright blue, crested member of the crow family common in eastern North America. Intelligent and noisy, it is a familiar visitor to backyard feeders.
Interesting facts
- Blue jays can carry several acorns at once in their throat and bill.
- They often mimic the calls of hawks, especially the red-shouldered hawk.
- Their blue colour comes from the structure of their feathers, not from pigment.
- The crest rises or falls with the bird’s mood.
- Blue jays mob owls and hawks to drive them away.
- Toronto’s baseball team is named after the blue jay.
Behaviour
Blue jays live in family groups and loose flocks. Some migrate in large flocks along coasts and lakeshores in autumn, while others stay year-round.
Breeding and young
Pairs build cup nests in trees and lay three to six eggs. Both parents feed the chicks.
Threats and conservation
The species is common, although it is affected by West Nile virus in some years.
Where to see it
- Backyard feeders across eastern North America
- Oak forests of the eastern United States
- Point Pelee and the Great Lakes shores during migration
- City parks and suburbs
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
