479. Aphelocoma cyanea. 11½ inches
This Jay is locally distributed chiefly in the southern parts of Florida, being found principally in scrub oaks. Like the Blue Jay, their food consists of animal matter and some seeds, berries, and acorns. Their habits are very similar to those of the northern bird and their calls resemble those of our bird, too. They are rather slow in flight and pass a great deal of their time upon the ground.
Note.—A “jay,” “jay,” similar to that of the Blue Jay, and a great variety of other calls.
Nest.—In the latter part of March and in April they build their flat nests of twigs, usually in bushes or scrub oaks, and lay three or four greenish-blue eggs, with brown spots; size 1.05 × .80.
Range.—Middle and southern portions of Florida chiefly along the coasts.
GREEN JAY
483. Xanthoura luxuosa glaucescens. 12 inches
These Jays are very beautiful, and we are sorry to have to admit that, like all the other members of the family, they are merciless in their treatment of smaller birds. During the summer their diet consists of raw eggs with young birds “on the side,” or vice versa; later they live upon nuts, berries, insects; in fact, anything that is edible.
Note.—Practically unlimited, being imitations of those of most of the birds in the vicinity.