The Eurasian Jay is an impressive and shy member of the Corvidae(Crow) family. Uk Birds | Corvidae | Nature sounds | Natural world
Jays hop around on the ground in search of acorns, and for places to hide them. Storing acorns like this is called ‘caching’ and provides the birds with food in leaner times. However, not all acorns are found again, which means some are left to grow into oak trees. Jays will also sometimes take eggs and young birds from nests.
How do jays breed?
April is usually the beginning of the nesting period for jays. Pairs mate for life and work together to construct their messy-looking nests. Nests are built in trees and shrubs using twigs, with roots and hair for lining, where the female will lay four to five eggs. Eggs are incubated for 16 days, with chicks fledging at around 22 days old.
Where do jays live?
Jays are widespread across the UK, apart from northern Scotland, and are active throughout the year. They favour broadleaf woodland but are also found in conifer woodland, scrub and urban areas.
The jay's signature 'screeching' call is a sure sign this bird is nearby.
Signs and spotting tips
Jays are most noticeable in autumn when they’re foraging for and burying acorns, but they can be seen all year round.
You’re likely to hear a jay before you see it - it has a characteristic ‘screeching’ call. It’s also a skilled mimic, sometimes copying the songs and calls of other birds.
Threats and conservation
The population is currently stable; however, persecution, the loss of wooded habitats and poor acorn crops can all pose a threat to jays.
(The Woodland Trust)
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16 окт 2024
