Black-headed jay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Black-headed jay |
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| Lithograph by Elizabeth Gould in 1831 | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Garrulus
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| Species: |
lanceolatus
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The black-headed jay, also known as the lanceolated jay, is a cool bird found in parts of Asia. Its scientific name is Garrulus lanceolatus. This bird is about the same size as its cousin, the Eurasian jay. However, it's a bit slimmer. It has a slightly shorter, thicker beak. You can easily spot it by its black head and a clear crest on top. It also has a longer tail.
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What Does It Look Like?
The black-headed jay is similar in size to the Eurasian jay. But it looks a bit more slender. Its beak is a little shorter and thicker than its relative's. The top of its head is black. It also has a noticeable crest, which is like a small tuft of feathers on its head. Plus, it has a longer tail.
Where Does It Live?
This bird lives in eastern Afghanistan and stretches across the mighty Himalayas. You can find it in countries like India, Nepal, and Bhutan. It prefers areas with trees and open spaces. It doesn't usually live in very thick forests. You might also see it in farm areas or near villages. This is true as long as there are enough trees and bushes nearby for it to feel safe.
What Does It Eat?
The black-headed jay finds its food both on the ground and in trees. It eats a wide variety of things. This includes many different plants and small animals. Just like its close relative, it might eat eggs and baby birds from other nests. It also isn't shy about eating food scraps found near people's homes.
Family Life
These jays build their nests in trees and suitable bushes. They are very similar to the Eurasian jay in how they raise their families. Their nests are made from sticks. These sticks are held together with mud. Inside, the nest is lined with soft weeds and small roots. A female jay usually lays 3 to 5 eggs. Both parents take turns sitting on the eggs for about 16 days. After the chicks hatch, both the mother and father work together to feed them.
What Does It Sound Like?
The voice of the black-headed jay is quite similar to its close relative. It often makes a loud, screeching sound. However, it usually has longer pauses between its calls.
Gallery
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Garrulus lanceolatus from Pangot, Uttarakhand, India at an altitude of around 6300 ft.
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The black-headed jay (Garrulus lanceolatus) at Palampur in Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India.
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Black-headed Jay near Gallu temple in Himachal
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Black-headed Jay at Sattal
