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| + | [[Image:Pinyon_Jay.jpg|thumb|550px|right|Photo by digishooter <br/> Location: Kelso Valley: Kern Co., CA., USA]] | ||
;[[: Category:Gymnorhinus|Gymnorhinus]] cyanocephalus | ;[[: Category:Gymnorhinus|Gymnorhinus]] cyanocephalus | ||
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==Description== | ==Description== | ||
*Blue-grey | *Blue-grey | ||
Revision as of 16:24, 7 February 2009
- Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus
Description
- Blue-grey
- Darkest on head
- White throat
- Black bill, legs and feet
Distribution
Western USA and Baja California in Mexico
Taxonomy
This is a monotypic species which is also the only member of its genus.
Habitat
Foothills where the pinyon pines Pinus edulis and Pinus monophylla occur.
Behaviour
Often forms very large flocks of 250 or more birds, with several birds acting as sentries for the flock.
Diet
Includes the seed of the Pinyon pine and fruits and berries. Insects of many types are also eaten.
Breeding
Nests are built as part of a colony. 3-4 eggs are laid and incubated for 16 days. Chicks fledge about 21 days later.
Discussion
The Pinyon Jay was first collected, recorded and described as a species from a specimen shot along the Maria River in Northern Montana during the Prince Maximilian of Wied-Neuwied, Expedition to the Interior of North America in 1833.
