Woodhouse’s Scrub-Jay and California Scrub-Jay were considered a single species known as Western Scrub-Jay until 2016.
Both members of a pair help with nest-building.
Either sex selects a nest site and initiates nest construction. A potential nest site is indicated to the mate by making an undulating flight to the site while producing loud flight vocalizations, often while carrying nest material. Wheeze vocalizations are produced upon approach to the site.
Scrub-Jays frequently construct nest platforms, especially at the onset of nesting season, that are never used.
Nests are often well hidden amid foliage and vines.