Jan 28, 2012
Marcy Gruenhut {studies western scrub jays}
The " Western Scrub Jay " (Aphelocoma californica) === the wiley, year-round, blue-and-gray jay (beautiful white bib, no crest) of the western United States & central Mexico. He/She prefers the drier, low elevation, scrub and open woodland habitats to the montane forests of the crested Steller's Jay.
Like other jays, this bird is social, bold, quick to adapt to living with humans in urban and suburban environments. It is noted for its ability to hide and relocate acorns plus other varied foods. The Western Scrub-Jay's common call is a raucous series of "zreep" notes; fortunately, the Jay reserves a softer, more musical repertoire ("whisper song") for private moments courting its mate.