Eurasian Jay

The Eurasian Jay (Garrulus glandarius) is a striking and intelligent member of the crow family, found in woodlands, parks and mature hedgerows across much of Britain. Often shy and cautious, it is usually glimpsed briefly as it moves through the trees or flies between woodland clearings with slow, rounded wingbeats.

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Despite its colourful plumage, which includes warm pinkish-brown tones, a bright blue barred wing patch and a white rump visible in flight, the Jay can be surprisingly difficult to observe closely. Its harsh, rasping call often reveals its presence before the bird itself is seen.

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Eurasian Jays are well known for their habit of collecting and burying acorns during autumn, storing them for later use through the winter months. In doing so, they play an important role in the spread and regeneration of oak woodland.