by Andrew Hartridge
The blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata) is a passerine bird in the family Corvidae, native to eastern North America. It resides through most of eastern and central United States, although western populations may be migratory. Resident populations are also found in Newfoundland, Canada while breeding populations can be found across southern Canada. It breeds in both deciduous and coniferous forests and is common in residential areas. It is predominantly blue with a white chest and underparts, and a blue crest; it has a black, U-shaped collar around its neck and a black border behind the crest. Males and females are similar in size and plumage, and plumage does not vary throughout the year. Four subspecies of the blue jay have been recognized.