Blue jays are common and easily recognized birds across eastern and central North America, known for their striking appearance. These intelligent birds are a familiar sight in various habitats, from dense forests to suburban backyards. For those observing these birds, understanding the specific characteristics of female blue jays can help in their identification.
Distinctive Features of Female Blue Jays
Female blue jays exhibit a vivid array of blue, white, and black colors. Their plumage on the crest, back, wings, and tail typically ranges from lavender-blue to mid-blue. This vibrant blue coloration is not due to a pigment; instead, it results from how light interacts with the unique internal structure of their feathers, a phenomenon known as structural coloration.
The underside of a female blue jay is off-white to grayish-white. A prominent black, U-shaped collar encircles their neck and extends towards the sides of their head. Their wings and tail feathers feature black bars and white markings, including white wing-bars and white corners on the tail.
A prominent crest of feathers atop their head is a distinguishing feature. This crest is not static; a female blue jay can raise or lower it depending on her mood or excitement. It may be fully erect when aggressive or alarmed, but flattens when relaxed, feeding, or during courtship.
The bird’s beak is thick, strong, and entirely black. Their eyes are dark brown or black, and their black legs and feet are suited for perching and holding food. Female blue jays are medium-sized songbirds, measuring about 9 to 12 inches (22-30 cm) in length, with a wingspan ranging from 13 to 17 inches (34-43 cm). They weigh between 2.5 and 3.5 ounces (70-100 grams).
Are There Differences Between Male and Female Blue Jays?
For the casual observer, distinguishing between male and female blue jays based solely on their appearance is challenging. Unlike many other bird species that display marked differences in plumage between sexes, male and female blue jays are considered monomorphic, meaning they look virtually identical. Their vibrant blue, black, and white feather patterns, crests, and overall body shapes are shared characteristics regardless of sex.
Male blue jays are slightly larger than females, though this size difference is minuscule and not discernible to the human eye. Professional ornithologists or researchers might use precise measurements or observe behavioral cues, such as courtship displays or nesting roles, to determine sex. During breeding season, a female will lead a group of males, and only the female incubates the eggs.
Juvenile Blue Jay Appearance
Young blue jays, or juveniles, resemble adult blue jays but have subtle distinctions. Their plumage is slightly duller or less vibrant than that of adults. The blue feathers of a juvenile often have a more grayish hue, lacking the full intensity seen in adults.
Juvenile blue jays have a more “fluffy” or less sleek appearance, as their feathers are not yet fully smooth and developed. Their crest is also less defined, shorter, or less pronounced than an adult’s. The black markings on their bodies are less distinct or muted. These differences are temporary, as juvenile blue jays quickly develop their adult plumage, achieving full blue coloration about a month after leaving the nest.