Scrub Jay

(Aphelocoma coerulescens)

 

A Scrub Jay sits at the forest edge near Inspiration Point.

Will Elder, NPS

 

Natural History: The Scrub Jay eats nuts, fruits, insects, bird eggs (and the young) and often caches its food. It takes cover in scrub and woodlands and prefers willow habitats on the Presidio. This bird nests in twig cups in dense foliage from early March to mid-August.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species can be found in forests of willow, eucalyptus, live oak, and all developed areas. It breeds in the Presidio.

Frequency: This species is common all year.

Identifying Characteristics: The Scrub Jay has no crest. It has a blue head, wings, and tail. Otherwise, it is a brownish-gray with a white throat necklace.

Presidio Birds main page