General Description: Pinyon Jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) are all-blue jays that usually travel and forage in large, noisy flocks. They are dusky blue above and below, and they have a little white streaking on the throat, but they do not have a crest.

Taxonomy: Passeriformes, Corvidae.

Favored Habitat: Conifer forests at middle elevations where Pinyon Pine and Utah Juniper are common (i.e., in the Pinyon-Juniper Woodland).

Where to Find: Around Las Vegas, look for Pinyon Jays in lower Kyle Canyon, lower Lee Canyon, and other mid-elevation areas on Mt. Charleston and in the Sheep Range.

Comments: Pinyon Jays feed on pine seeds (pine nuts) and typically feed on the seed of Pinyon Pines. Pinyon Jays are flocking birds, and you'll never see or hear just one.