JAY


Meaning of JAY in English

n.

Any of 35–40 bird species (family Corvidae) that inhabit woodlands and are known for their bold, raucous manner.

Most are found in the New World, but several are Eurasian. Jays are nearly omnivores; some steal eggs, and many store seeds and nuts for winter use. They make a twiggy, cuplike nest in trees. The 12-in. (30-cm) blue jay, blue and white with a narrow black neckline, is found in North America east of the Rockies; westward it is replaced by the dark-blue, black-crested Steller's jay. Another abundant species is the scrub jay, found throughout western North America and in Florida.

Blue jay ( Cyanocitta cristata )

John H. Gerard

Britannica Concise Encyclopedia.      Краткая энциклопедия Британика.