Jay

Garrulus glandarius
The jay is a colourful member of the corvid family known for burying acorns in autumn

The jay is a colourful member of the corvid family known for burying acorns in autumn

LENGTH

32 – 35 cm

WINGSPAN

50 cm

WEIGHT

140 – 190 g

HABITATS

what do jays look like?

The jay has pinkish plumage all over with a duller back and a white rump and black tail. The wings are black and white with a flash of electric blue. On the head, the crown is white with black streaks, and the face is white with a black moustache.

The bill is black surrounded with bristles at the base, the eyes are pale blue, and the legs and feet are pink. Males and females are similar.

Juveniles resemble adults, but they are darker, and have a grey bill, and the blue on the wing is patchy.

what do jays sound like?
Ulf Elman/xeno-canto
where are jays found?

Jays are found across the UK except for northern Scotland. Look out for them in woodland, parks, and mature gardens.

SPOTTING TIPS

Despite their brilliant colouring, jays are shy birds and can be hard to spot. They are best seen in autumn when they move into the open in search of food.

when to spot jays in the uk

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F

M

A

M

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J

A

S

O

N

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