Steller's Jay & Blue Jay

Being familiar with the Blue Jay, I was lucky to experience a Steller's Jay on a visit out west. Closely related species, the Stellar's Jay live in the Western United States preferring mountains and pines while the Blue Jay inhabits the East and North.

They are both bold and inquisitive. I found the Steller's Jay outwardly curious. He would stay at a distance while keeping an eye on me, both of us showing mutual interest.

The Blue Jay, while equally curious, is low-key about it almost exhibiting a slyness like, "I'm watching you but don't want you to know."

The Steller's Jay is easy to photograph while the Blue Jay is difficult as they flee when they see the slightest movement.

Here, for your viewing pleasure, is a photographic comparison between the Steller's Jay and the Blue Jay.

The Steller's Jay from the right . . .

 . . . and the Blue Jay from the right.

The Steller's Jay from the left . . .

. . . and the Blue Jay from the left.

The Stellar's Jay from the front . . .

. . . and the Blue Jay from the front.

When done photographing the Blue Jay vanished (I'm certain I must have moved) . . .

. . .while the the Steller's Jay was "outta here!"