What is the scientific name for a blue jay? The blue jay scientific name is Cyanocitta cristata.
Blue jays rank among the most recognizable birds in North America; they are renowned for their exceptional mental abilities, superb communication, and striking blue plumage. The information discussed in this article encompasses everything about the blue jay scientific name, meaning, genus, classification, diet, habitats, types, sounds, and biological information.
What is the Scientific Name for a Blue Jay?
The scientific name of the blue jay is Cyanocitta cristata. It is a member of the Corvidae family and the Passeriformes order that also includes crows, magpies, and ravens.
Meaning of the Blue Jay Scientific Name:
The Latin and Greek roots of Cyanocitta cristata describe the bird’s color and crest:
- “Cyanos” means blue in Greek.
- “Kitta” means chattering bird.
- “Cristata” refers to the bird being crested.
Therefore, the biological and Latin names literally say crested blue chattering bird, which is a perfect match for the physical and vocal characteristics of the blue jay.
Pronunciation of blue jay scientific name:
The Latin name for the blue jay, Cyanocitta cristata, is pronounced as:
- /ˌsaɪ.ə.noʊˈsɪt.ə krɪsˈteɪ.tə/
- sy-uh-nuh-KIT-uh kris-TAH-tuh
Biological Classification of Blue Jay Bird
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | cristata |
Blue Jay Genus, Color, and Appearance:
The blue jay is part of the genus Cyanocitta, which is composed of North American jays. Besides these physical traits, genus members possess a high IQ, excellent social skills, and problem-solving abilities.
Moreover, the family Corvidae includes other intelligent birds such as crows, magpies, and ravens, which are known for their tool-making and vocal abilities.
Why blue jays look blue:
To be exact, blue jays are not really blue at all. There are no blue pigments in their feathers. The microscopic feather structure scatters and refracts light in such a way that they look blue to our eyes—a phenomenon called structural coloration.
Identifying features:
- Head, back, and wings in bright blue.
- Underpart and face in white.
- Black collar around the neck.
- Head with a tuft and the expressive movement of the tuft.
