Crows and jays (Corvidae)
California Scrub-Jay
Aphelocoma californica. Acorns, insects, fruit and small animals.
Crows and jays (Corvidae)California Scrub-JayAphelocoma californica
- Scientific name
- Aphelocoma californica
- Length
- 10.6–11.8 in
- Weight
- 2.8–3.5 oz
- Nest
- Twig cup in oaks or shrubs 3–30 ft up
- Entrance hole
- Does not use nest boxes
- Clutch
- 3–6 eggs
- Incubation
- 15–17 days
- Broods
- 1 per season
Identification
- Bright blue head, wings and tail
- Brown-grey back
- Blue 'necklace' across a whitish breast
Voice
Raspy, scolding 'jree-jree'.
Diet and feeding
Acorns, insects, fruit and small animals.
What do California scrub-jays eat? · Best feeder for California scrub-jays
California Scrub-Jays by state and province
| Region | Status | Nesting |
|---|---|---|
| California | Year-round resident | February–June |
Frequently asked
What do California scrub-jays eat?
Acorns, insects, fruit and small animals. At feeders: peanuts, sunflower, suet.
How big is a California Scrub-Jay?
10.6–11.8 in long and 2.8–3.5 oz.
Do California scrub-jays use birdhouses?
No. Twig cup in oaks or shrubs 3–30 ft up.
Sources
- California Scrub-Jay — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- California Scrub-Jay life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- California Scrub-Jay — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.