island scrub jay

bird

Also known as: Aphelocoma insularis

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Last updated

July 19, 2026

Quick Summary

The island scrub jay is a bird species belonging to the family Corvidae, which also includes crows and ravens. It is a cousin to the western scrub jay and is distinguished by its larger size and more brilliant blue coloration. This species is found exclusively on Santa Cruz Island, off the coast of California. Scrub jays, in general, are known for their blue heads, tails, and wings, with a brownish back, and they typically inhabit scrub or chaparral environments. They are nearly omnivorous, often storing seeds and nuts for later use.123

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jay
…western North America; and the island scrub jay (A. insularis), found only on Santa Cruz Island, off the coast of California. They are locally called “blue jays,” but they lack the crests of C. cristata.
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…western North America; and the island scrub jay (A. insularis), found only on Santa Cruz Island, off the coast of California. They are locally called “blue jays,” but they lack the crests of C. cristata.
Read More