Florida Scrub-Jay
Aphelocoma coerulescens
The Florida Scrub-Jay lives nowhere else in the world outside Florida.
The Florida Scrub-Jay lives nowhere else in the world outside Florida. Observe from a distance. Never feed or lure scrub-jays, and keep cats indoors near scrub habitat. Protected under the Endangered Species Act and Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Harassment, capture, and harm are prohibited.
Habitat:
Pine Flatwoods and Sandhills, Scrub and Dry Prairie
Area / Range:
Central Florida, Atlantic Coast
Diet:
Acorns, insects, spiders, berries, seeds, small reptiles, and eggs.
Behavior:
Lives in cooperative family groups. Young birds often help their parents raise later broods.
Day
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Observe from a respectful distance in suitable Florida habitat.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Federally threatened
Safety Level:
Protected. Do Not Feed
Safety Information:
Observe from a distance. Never feed or lure scrub-jays, and keep cats indoors near scrub habitat.
Benefits to Property:
Buried acorns support oak regeneration across scrub habitat.
Property Concerns:
Habitat clearing, fire suppression, feeding, cats, and vehicle strikes threaten local families.
Fun Fact:
The Florida Scrub-Jay lives nowhere else in the world outside Florida.
Wildlife Laws:
Protected under the Endangered Species Act and Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Harassment, capture, and harm are prohibited.
Identification:
Blue-and-gray jay with a pale forehead, blue wings and tail, and no crest.
Credits:
Facts: wildlife reference. Images: Wikimedia Commons.