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Western Scrub-Jay's are a beautiful blue bird with a very long blue tail. They are mostly blue on top with some graying. Their underneath side is usually light gray. Most Western Scrub-Jay's are determined to have it their own way and demonstrate a tendency to be very vocal. They usually seem to take it easy with a slow deliberate flight that seems to take in everything around them. But when agitated they dart to and fro screaming at the top of their lungs. They really do like to have it their way. Usually they are found in scrubby oaks and similar habitat.
With your binoculars take some time and look for general markings and characteristics, things that you notice right off. Do not spend a lot of time trying to memorize different aspects of the Western Scrub-Jay's. Just look for general information and then you will be able to quickly recognize what group these birds belong to by noticing size, general shape, colors and their behavior.
Western Scrub-Jay
A rather lanky bird with long, floppy tail and a rounded head without any crest
Blue and gray above, with a pale underside that is broken up by a blue necklace
Determined, assertive, vocal, and inquisitive; in flight seems underpowered and slow
Scrubby habitats of the West: oak woodlands and chaparral near the coast and pinion-juniper woodlands of the interior
Birding is a great sport, especially watching Western Scrub-Jays. Their antics and activities will keep you busy for hours. With some enjoyable work in preparation by learning a few basics about them and with a good pair of bird watching binoculars you can have many hours of pleasure with your family or by yourself.
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