Standard English Name(s): Steller's jays
Local English Name(s): blue jay
Scientific Name(s): Cyanocitta stelleri (Gmelin)
Upriver Halkomelem Name(s):
Downriver Halkomelem Name(s):
Island Halkomelem Name(s):

Description, Habitat, Ecology, & Distribution:
     Steller's jay, locally well-known as "blue jay," is between a crow and a robin in size (reaching 34 cm [13-1/2 in]). The Steller's jay has beautiful blue on its body, and black feathers in the head crest. It frequents open woodlands, the edges of clearings, breaks in the forest, and the plant growth among waterways. It also may be found in other habitats such as swamps, second-growth forests, and brushy clearcuts. It is found throughout much of the southern half of British Columbia, being especially common on Vancouver Island and the adjacent mainland. Steller's jays feed on insects and other invertebrates, small vertebrates, bird eggs, nestlings, fruits, and seeds.

Upriver Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
     This bird is believed to predict good news and bad news, as indicated by different calls.

Downriver Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
Island Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):