There was no mistaking it… The deep blue feathers and the shaggy black crest that looks like a mohawk. It was a Steller’s Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri), sighted on December 22, 2018 at the base of the San Bernardino Mountains in the foothills of Highland, CA a few miles East of Highway 138 leading up to Lake Arrowhead, and West of Highway 38 leading up to Running Springs and Big Bear. Normally found in western pine and coniferous forests, this one was sighted at Holly Haven, a deeply forested and welcoming safe haven for all kinds of birds and wildlife. For a few moments we were in awe and stood quiet and transfixed. Steller’s jays are vocal and territorial. They are also able to make different noises and mimic other sounds. They are beautiful to look at and they mate for life. Steller’s jays are interesting creatures to watch and to learn more about. (Sorry, no photo. we just weren’t quick enough this time. Next time…)
~~R. Louis & L. Davide