Jay / Scréachóg / Garrulus glandarius hibernicus

Did you know?

• Most colourful member of the crow family.
• Shy woodland bird.
• Mainly eat acorns, nuts, seeds and insects, but also eats nestlings of other birds and small mammals.
• The male and female usually pair for life.
• Untidy nest of twigs is built by both birds in a tree or shrub.

What to watch for:

Size:

• About 35 cm in length, similar to a jackdaw. Wingspan 52-58cm.

Coloration:

• Pinkish brown colour, with the underparts being slightly paler.
• Black moustache and distinctive white rump. Black tail and black bill.
• The wings are mostly black with white and striking blue patches.

Where to watch:

• Deciduous and conifer woodlands and mature gardens.

When to watch:

• All year round, but more obvious when they travel in search of acorns or beech mast to bury.

Listen for:

• Screaming call, usually given when a bird is on the move, so watch for a bird flying between the trees.
• Well known for its mimicry of other birds.
  
  

Viewing Locations:

• Barnaslingan

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