From Opus

Photo by digishooter
Location: Kelso Valley: Kern Co., CA., USA

Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus

[edit] Description

• Blue-grey
  • Darkest on head
• White throat
• Black bill, legs and feet

[edit] Distribution

Western USA and Baja California in Mexico

[edit] Taxonomy

This is a monotypic species which is also the only member of its genus.

[edit] Habitat

Foothills where the pinyon pines Pinus edulis and Pinus monophylla occur.

[edit] Behaviour

Often forms very large flocks of 250 or more birds, with several birds acting as sentries for the flock.

[edit] Diet

Includes the seed of the Pinyon pine and fruits and berries. Insects of many types are also eaten.

[edit] Breeding

Nests are built as part of a colony. 3-4 eggs are laid and incubated for 16 days. Chicks fledge about 21 days later.

[edit] Discussion

The Pinyon Jay was first collected, recorded and described as a species from a specimen shot along the Maria River in Northern Montana during the Prince Maximilian of Wied-Neuwied, Expedition to the Interior of North America in 1833.

[edit] External Links