Bird watching: Steller’s jay returns

Self-tutoring about local birds: the tutor mentions a favourite that’s been visiting lately.

I do a lot of yard chores, so am often outside. The other day, I recognized a call from an old friend: a Steller’s jay.

As usual, I didn’t see the bird at first, but rather heard it while I was looking in another direction. In fact, I am just hearing it again:)

Apparently, Steller’s jays live around here all year; yet, I don’t often see them. However, this seems a time of year when they do visit. The one from the other day spent time in oak trees along the street. It cackled its familiar, raspy call, but then went on to some rattle calls.

It seems Steller’s jays like to eat acorns, which the red oak trees along the street produce this time of year. I hope that will mean more visits from Steller’s jays:)

Steller’s jay calls, in my opinion, can sound like various other species; they have numerous different calls. I hope to discuss this idea in one or more coming posts:)

Source:

audubon.org: Steller’s Jay