Sirhowy Hill Woodlands

Scientific name: Garrulus glandarius

Jay

Jays are brightly coloured crows that can be found in woodland, parks and gardens. Surprisingly shy, their screaming call is most likely to be heard as they fly between trees – watch out for a flash of a bright white rump. Jays eat invertebrates, especially caterpillars and beetles, and are famous for enjoying acorns (and other nuts and fruits) during the autumn; they will cache their finds for later. Jays are present all year-round, but are most obvious in autumn when they have to move about in the open more often, looking for acorns, beechmast and hazelnuts.

How to identify the Jay?

A brightly coloured crow, the Jay is unmistakeable. It is mainly pinkish-buff, with a black tail, white rump, black ‘moustache’ and black and white wings that sport a brilliant blue patch.

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Statistics

Scientific Name

Garrulus glandarius

Location

England, Wales and Ireland

Population

Widespread, although absent from the north of Scotland.

Other Wildlife