This month`s Feeder Friday we are spotlighting one of the feeders` most colorful and charismatic visitors: the Steller’s Jay! ✨ These jays live in western montane conifer forests from Alaska all the way to Guatemala, and Colorado to California. Scientists have described 16 subspecies across this range! 🌎

In the clip, you can spot the regional distinction with its white streaks over the eye and in front of the crest. Depending on the year, they may stage impressive winter invasions of the valleys near the mountains, looking for food. Typically, they stay at high elevations and continue to reside there, as they only nest in the mountains. 🪹

These jays can be quite loud and bold, but do take a bow to the Nutcrackers when they come to the feeders, becoming 2nd in command. They visit year round, but are particularly active in autumn when they are caching for the winter. Listen for their harsh, scratchy calls, which often announce their arrival before they are visible on the cam! 📢

This feeder is operated in collaboration with Friends of Alta, The Finchmasters - Finch Research Network, and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Let us know what else you have spotted on the livestream in the comments below!