Canada Jay

The Canada jay (Perisoreus canadensis), also known colloquially as the gray jay, whisky jack, or camp robber, is a passerine bird belonging to the family Corvidae. This species is a fairly large songbird, characterized by pale grey underparts, darker grey upperparts, and a striking grey-white head with a darker grey nape. It is one of three members of the genus Perisoreus, more closely related to the magpie genus Cyanopica than to other birds commonly referred to as jays.

Identification Tips

Adult Canada jays typically measure between 25 and 33 cm in length, with a wingspan of approximately 45 cm and a weight range of 65 to 70 grams. They exhibit a medium grey back, lighter grey underside, and a white head with a contrasting dark grey or black nape. The beak is short and black, the eyes dark, and the plumage thick, providing insulation in their cold native habitat. Juveniles are initially very dark grey, transitioning to adult plumage after their first molt.

Habitat

Canada jays inhabit permanent territories within coniferous forests, particularly favoring areas with a strong presence of various spruce and pine species. They are found in boreal forests up to the tree line and in the subalpine zone of the Rocky Mountains.

Distribution

The range of the Canada jay spans across northern North America, from Alaska to Newfoundland and Labrador, and southward to include parts of the northern United States such as northern California, Idaho, Utah, and New England. They are also found in the northern reaches of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and New York.

Behaviour

Canada jays are known for their year-round residency within their territories, surviving the winter months on food cached during warmer periods. They form monogamous mating pairs, often accompanied by a juvenile from the previous season. These birds are known for their boldness in approaching humans for food, a trait that has earned them various nicknames.

Song & Calls

The Canada jay employs a variety of vocalizations, including a whistled "quee-oo" and an array of clicks and chuckles. They may also mimic other bird species, particularly predators, and use specific calls to signal the presence of ground or aerial threats.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in March and April, with pairs building nests in mature conifer trees. The female incubates a clutch of 2 to 5 light green-grey eggs with darker spots, while the male provides food. Juveniles are altricial and leave the nest between 22 and 24 days after hatching.

Similar Species

The Canada jay can be distinguished from other jays by its unique coloration and habitat preferences. It is less colorful than species such as the blue jay and lacks the pronounced crest.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous bird, the Canada jay's diet includes arthropods, small mammals, nestling birds, carrion, fungi, fruits, and seeds. They are adept at caching food items in various hiding spots for later consumption.

Conservation status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) considers the Canada jay to be of least concern. However, populations in southern ranges may be adversely affected by global warming, potentially impacting their reproductive success due to spoilage of cached food items.