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Feeder birds
Blue Jay
Cyanocitta cristata
The blue jay is a passerine bird in the family Corvidae, native to eastern North America. It lives in most of the eastern and central United States; some eastern populations may be migratory.
Crested, blue above and whitish below with a black necklace; loud, varied calls.
- Scientific name
- Cyanocitta cristata
- Group
- Feeder birds
- Main color
- Blue
- Conservation (IUCN)
- Least concern
Size and shape
The blue jay measures 22–30 cm (9–12 in) from bill to tail and weighs 70–100 g (2.5–3.5 oz), with a wingspan of 34–43 cm (13–17 in).
Diet
Blue jays are omnivorous, but the Audubon Society estimates that 75% of their diet is vegetable matter.
Range and habitat
The western edge of the range stops where the arid pine forest and scrub habitat of the closely related Steller's jay (C. stelleri) begins, generally in the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Lifespan
The oldest known wild, banded blue jay was at least 26 years, 11 months old when it was found dead after being caught in fishing gear.
Voice
Blue jays can make a large variety of sounds, and individuals may vary perceptibly in their calling style.
More photos
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Blue Jay FAQ
How big is the Blue Jay?
The blue jay measures 22–30 cm (9–12 in) from bill to tail and weighs 70–100 g (2.5–3.5 oz), with a wingspan of 34–43 cm (13–17 in).
What does the Blue Jay eat?
Blue jays are omnivorous, but the Audubon Society estimates that 75% of their diet is vegetable matter.
How long does the Blue Jay live?
The oldest known wild, banded blue jay was at least 26 years, 11 months old when it was found dead after being caught in fishing gear.
How do I identify a Blue Jay?
Crested, blue above and whitish below with a black necklace; loud, varied calls.
Where does the Blue Jay live?
The western edge of the range stops where the arid pine forest and scrub habitat of the closely related Steller's jay (C. stelleri) begins, generally in the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Is the Blue Jay endangered?
No. The IUCN Red List rates the Blue Jay as least concern (status read from Wikidata).
Facts on this page are summarized from the Wikipedia article on the Blue Jay (read October 27, 2026) and conservation status from Wikidata. Quick ID notes are Birdstagram's own summary.