Details
Garrulus glandarius
The Eurasian jay is a diurnal corvid of Eurasian woodlands. Often seen in pairs, it is known for mimicry, sharp calls, and caching acorns.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
It uses deciduous and mixed forest, parks, and woodland edges. Oak-rich areas are especially important during autumn feeding and caching.
Wingspan is about 52-58 cm and weight about 140-190 g. Buff body plumage, a dark moustache mark, blue-and-black wing panels, and a white rump are distinctive.
Active by day, it moves through trees in pairs or small parties. It is wary and often gives loud calls from within cover.
It is omnivorous, eating acorns, seeds, fruit, insects, eggs, and other foods. In autumn it hides nuts in the ground for later use.
Pairs build nests in tree branches and raise the young together. Nests are usually concealed among foliage.
Its status is listed as Least Concern. Forgotten cached acorns can germinate, making the bird an important woodland seed mover.
