Cyanocitta cristata cristata

(Linnaeus, 1758)

Vernacular names
English : Blue jay
French : Geai bleu

Classification
Class : Aves
Order : Passeriformes
Family : Corvidae
Notes : 3 other subspecies known

Identification
Adults can reach a total length of 30 cm for a weight of 100 g. Thick black bill, small blue crest on head. Coloration is blue to grey-blue, brighter on wings, nape and tail, duller on belly. Face light-grey blue with black collar.

Range and habitat
The species occurs from south Central Canada to most of the eastern and central parts of USA, including Florida and coastal Gulf of Mexico. Subspecies found in east, central and southeast USA. Lives in forests, woodlands, forest edges, suburban parks and cities.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species is common and its range is increasing. It adapts very well to life in big cities. Previous declines noted because of west Nile virus.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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