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Mid to south parts of the [[Florida]] peninsula (more to the Atlantic than the Gulf side) where it is common but localized. | Mid to south parts of the [[Florida]] peninsula (more to the Atlantic than the Gulf side) where it is common but localized. | ||
==Taxonomy== | ==Taxonomy== | ||
| − | The monotypic Florida Scrub-Jay, [[Island Scrub-Jay]], and [[Western Scrub-Jay]] were previously considered | + | The monotypic Florida Scrub-Jay, [[Island Scrub-Jay]], and [[Western Scrub-Jay]] were previously considered conspecific (Scrub Jay, ''Aphelocoma coerulescens''). |
==Habitat== | ==Habitat== | ||
Revision as of 15:27, 18 June 2008
- Aphelocoma coerulescens
Also known as Florida Jay.
Identification
This jay shows only shades of light gray and blue:
Adult
- Long blue tail
- Blue undertail coverts
- Blue wings
- Blue neck and head
- Whitish supercilium that connects over the bill as a white forehead
- White stripes on the throat
- Pale gray mantle
- Pale gray underside
- Legs and bill are dark
Juvenile
- Lacks blue on head and neck and wing coverts
- Darker on the back
Similar Species
Within range, the most similar species is the Blue Jay, which has shorter tail, blue back at all ages, white wing-bars, blue crest, and black markings in the head and thoat areas.
Distribution
Mid to south parts of the Florida peninsula (more to the Atlantic than the Gulf side) where it is common but localized.
Taxonomy
The monotypic Florida Scrub-Jay, Island Scrub-Jay, and Western Scrub-Jay were previously considered conspecific (Scrub Jay, Aphelocoma coerulescens).
Habitat
Scrublands, especially with scrub oaks rather than pines.
Behaviour
An inquisitive and intelligent species, the most striking attribute of the Florida Scrub Jay's behavior is its remarkable tameness. Scrub Jays show almost no fear of people and will even take peanuts from people's hands and lips. Scrub Jays will also steal silverware and other shiny objects in a manner similar to the American Crow.
