The scrub jay is a very common bird around here. I see them chasing other birds away from the feeder, in the trees, bushes . . . just about everywhere.
They have a very raucous voice and most times can be heard before they are seen.
Maralee
Scrub Jay
Through My Lens 
Love that lift-off shot! I’ve yet to see the Scrub Jay, we don’t have them here in the east. I searched hard when we traveled out west 2016 too!
I think they’re more common in some areas of the west than in others. When I was visiting California I didn’t see any. But we have plenty here.
Nice capture of the lift-off . . . I used to be able to do it with hawks, but it’s more difficult with smaller birds (they’re faster).
That was a pure luck shot. I was on continuous shooting when it took off.
I believe they are a member of the “Corvid” family & as such are very intelligent!
I do believe they are quite intelligent. They can look at me as if I’m a real idiot sometimes.
their cousin the Whiskey Jack will do just that & also scold you If you don’t give them any of your breakfast!
Great work.
Thank you.
I love that lift-off shot! Great timing!! They’re very common here too, and pretty vocal. Always complaining I think. 🙂
I think they’re quite common in the West.