Hungry Fledgling Steller’s Jays

Back in March, a pair of Steller’s Jays began building a nest just feet from our living room sliding glass door. Over several days, we eagerly watched as the pair engaged in construction. But, ultimately, the pair abandoned that particular DIY project – we suspected they opted to nest somewhere deeper in the dense patch of woods next to the house.
 
We were pretty disappointed we wouldn’t get to watch the Nestling Show on Nature’s TV from our couch. However, two days ago, from our deck we heard the high-pitched, power saw-esque sound of Steller’s Jay fledglings nearby. We discovered four cute, little youngsters lined up in a row on a branch near the forest floor. From an incredible vantage point directly above, we spent the afternoon watching the little ones.
 
Watch these hungry juveniles patiently wait until one catches a glimpse of a parent, which perks them all up. They begin begging enthusiastically and the parent obliges. Be sure to turn the sound on!


 
Here, two fledglings snooze to an American Robin lullaby while the other two stretch, preen, and scratch themselves.


 
Lastly, after straying from the original branch, three fledglings interact while they wait for mom or dad. Watch them actively test out theories to the question, “what is food?” as they peck at a scar on a branch, a nearby plant, and each other!


 
What fun it was spying on these little ones from above. We’re excited to watch them get bigger and more independent each day!

4 thoughts on “Hungry Fledgling Steller’s Jays

  1. I knew the parents removed the poop sacs from the nest, but I didn’t know that they (yuck) ate the poop sacs. I have seen videos of Cardinals doing that too.

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