Blue jays are highly recognizable and intelligent birds found across North America, known for their striking blue, black, and white plumage and distinctive calls. These adaptable birds exhibit an omnivorous diet, allowing them to thrive in various habitats, from dense forests to suburban backyards. Their flexible foraging habits mean they consume a wide array of foods.
Blue Jays and Apples
Blue jays are opportunistic feeders, taking advantage of readily available food sources. While apples are not a primary component of their natural diet, blue jays may consume them, especially if other food sources are scarce or when apples are abundant. They peck at fallen fruit or take small pieces directly from trees. Apples are typically a minor part of their overall food intake. If offering apples, cut them into small, bite-sized pieces and remove any seeds, as some fruit seeds can contain compounds harmful to birds.
A Blue Jay’s Natural Diet
The natural diet of a blue jay is diverse, consuming both plant and animal matter. Plant-based foods constitute a significant portion, making up to 75% of their diet, with a higher percentage in winter. Nuts and seeds are staples, with acorns being a favored food. They also consume beechnuts, hazelnuts, hickory nuts, and various other tree nuts and seeds, including sunflower seeds. Blue jays exhibit a remarkable behavior of caching, or hiding, thousands of nuts and seeds for later consumption, especially during colder months.
In addition to plant matter, blue jays supplement their diet with protein-rich insects. They forage for caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers, cicadas, dragonflies, spiders, and snails. Insects can account for approximately 22% of their diet. Berries and other small fruits, such as cherries, grapes, blackberries, and elderberries, are also consumed seasonally. Occasionally, blue jays eat small vertebrates like rodents or frogs, and sometimes carrion. While they have a reputation for eating the eggs and nestlings of other birds, studies suggest this behavior is relatively uncommon.
Providing Food for Blue Jays
To attract blue jays, offer specific foods. Peanuts, either in the shell or shelled and unsalted, are highly favored. Black oil sunflower seeds, suet, and cracked corn are also popular choices. Providing whole or unshelled peanuts allows blue jays to engage in their natural caching behavior.
When feeding blue jays, use sturdy feeders like tray feeders, hopper feeders, or open platforms, as these larger birds require ample space. Avoid feeding them salted nuts, spoiled food, or bread scraps, as these can be unhealthy. Maintain a clean feeding area and provide a fresh water source, such as a bird bath.