California Scrub-Jay
California Scrub-Jay
(Aphelocoma californica)


California Scrub-Jay eggs
Photo © Floyd Schrock

California Scrub-Jay Eggs
Photo © René Corado

California Scrub-Jay adult
Photo © Michael Rieser/Macaulay Library

California Scrub-Jay juveniles
Photo © Brian Sullivan/Macaulay Library

California Scrub-Jay
Photo © Michael Rieser/Macaulay Library
Calls
© Paul Fenwick / Macaulay Library
Calls
© Bob Hasenick / Macaulay Library
Calls
© Paul Fenwick / Macaulay Library
Calls
© Nathan Pieplow
Calls
© Paul Fenwick / Macaulay Library
Flock calls
© Diane Schroeder / Macaulay Library
Whisper song
© Herb Elliott / Macaulay Library
Where To Find It

Source: Birds of the World
Habitats


Substrates



What You'll Find
Nest Type

Chick

Clutch Size
1
2
3
5
Nest Height
14 ft
6 ft
Nesting Statistics
Incubation Period
17-19
days
days
Brooding Period
16-26
days
days
Useful Hints
- California Scrub-Jay and Woodhouse’s 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.
- Nests are often well hidden amid foliage, vines, and mistletoe.
- Scrub-Jays frequently constructs nest platforms, especially at the onset of nesting season, that are never used.