Eurasian jay

The Eurasian jay is a remarkable bird that inhabits regions from Western Europe to Southeast Asia. Notably, these birds exhibit different appearances based on their geographic location. In Great Britain and Ireland, they are commonly referred to simply as "jays."

Carl Linnaeus first described the bird in 1758, naming it Corvus glandarius. There are eight primary groups of these jays, encompassing a total of 33 subspecies. Each group possesses a distinct appearance, characterized by varying colors and patterns.

Eurasian jays thrive in mixed woodlands, particularly those with oak trees, as they have a significant preference for acorns. Due to the loss of some of their natural habitats, they have adapted to urban environments. Interestingly, they contribute to the proliferation of oak trees by dispersing acorns over large areas.

These birds are adept mimics and are well-known for their alarm calls. Their diet is diverse, including invertebrates, seeds, fruits, and even small animals. They are also known to hoard food, especially acorns, to ensure their survival during the winter. For nesting, they choose trees and shrubs, with both parents sharing the responsibility of caring for their chicks.

To maintain their health, Eurasian jays engage in a behavior known as anting. They lie on anthills and allow ants to spray formic acid on their feathers, which helps in deterring parasites. Additionally, these birds exhibit considerable intelligence. They have been observed planning for future needs and even considering their partner’s preferences during courtship.