Steller’s Jays and hummingbirds often share the same forested and suburban habitats in western North America. This close proximity, combined with the jay’s reputation, frequently leads observers to question the nature of their interactions. Specifically, many wonder if the larger, bolder Steller’s Jay preys on the smaller hummingbird. Understanding their relationship requires examining the jay’s diet and foraging behavior.
Steller’s Jay Predation on Hummingbirds
Steller’s Jays do predate hummingbirds, but they overwhelmingly target eggs and nestlings, not adult birds. Jays are known as intelligent nest predators within their ecosystems. Hummingbird nests are small, often built on thin branches, and contain vulnerable clutches, making them easy targets. Jays actively search the canopy for the nests of smaller songbirds, especially during their own nesting season when they require protein for their young. Predation of adult hummingbirds is extremely rare, usually limited to individuals that are sick, injured, or trapped, as adult hummingbirds are too quick and agile to be reliably caught in flight.
The Opportunistic Diet of Steller’s Jays
Preying on hummingbird nests exemplifies the Steller’s Jay’s highly adaptable, omnivorous nature. Their diet is varied, consisting of approximately two-thirds plant matter and one-third animal matter. They consume a wide range of food items, including nuts, seeds, berries, and cultivated fruit, often favoring pine seeds and acorns. Animal protein sources are diverse, encompassing insects like beetles, wasps, and spiders, as well as small vertebrates such as mice and lizards. Jays are also known for opportunistic foraging around human activity, readily consuming table scraps and food from bird feeders.
Protecting Hummingbird Nests and Feeders
To mitigate the risk of predation, observers can take practical steps to safeguard hummingbirds near their property. One strategy is strategically placing hummingbird feeders away from dense trees or shrubs where a Steller’s Jay might perch undetected. Although feeders do not contain eggs or nestlings, the presence of adult hummingbirds may draw the jays’ attention. Another measure is providing dense, thorny vegetation in the yard, as hummingbirds often choose these spots because the thorns deter climbing predators. If feeding Steller’s Jays, offering them shelled peanuts or suet in a separate feeder can reduce their incentive to forage elsewhere for protein.