I first sighted Blue Jays in my yard about 7:30 am on 9/10/98. They didn't sit still and let me look at them that morning, instead they just flashed by, staying within my line of vision only long enough for me to identify them. There were at least two and possibly more of these beautiful visiters.

"Peterson Field Guides Eastern Birds" by Roger Tory Peterson, describes the Blue Jay as follows:

Blue Jay: Cyanocitta cristata 11 - 12 1/2" (28-31 cm) A showy, noisy, blue bird with a crest; larger than a Robin. Bold white spots in wings and tail; whitish or dull gray underparts; black necklace.

Voice: A harsh slurring jeeah or jay; a musical queedle, queedle; also many oher notes. Mimics the calls of Red-shouldered and Red-tailed Hawks.

Range: S. Canada, east of Rockies to Gulf states. Habitat: Oak and pine woods, suburban gardens, groves, towns.

Not a 'pleasant' sound the screech of the Blue Jay is still a welcome addition to my backyard noises. (Sound courtesy of 'The Feature Photo Gallery'.)


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