Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus
The Pinyon Jay is a highly gregarious and loud species that acts more like a small crow than a jay. During the non-breeding season, this non-crested jay forages in flocks, consisting of family members, that roam over the countryside in search of food. The group members take turns being on the lookout for danger while the rest concentrate on feeding activities. When the source of pinyon cones fails periodically, these jays disperse widely in search of alternative food sources; they venture far from their typical ranges. Pinyon Jays do not establish pair bonds until their third year. Once the bond is formed, pairs remain together year-round. Gymnorhinus is Greek for 'naked nose'-an usual trait for a jay-and cyanocephalus means 'blue-headed.' |
I.D.: Sexes similar: all-blue-gray plumage; light streaks on the throat; long, pointed bill; short tail. Size: L 9-111/2 in. (23-29 cm). Range: locally common year-round in the southern U.S. Rockies. Habitat: pinyon-juniper woodlands up to the montane. Nesting: in pinyons, junipers and shrubs; large, bulky nest is made of sticks, twigs and fibers; female incubates 4-5 eggs for up to 17 days. Feeding: searches the ground and vegetation for pinyon nuts, seeds and insects; also eats berries and other birds' eggs and nestlings. Voice: warning call is a low krawk-krawk-krawk. Similar Species: Western Scrub-Jay: light gray underparts; long tail. |
