The black-headed jay or lanceolated jay is a species of passerine bird in the crow family Corvidae. It is found in open wooded country across the Himalayas and into eastern Afghanistan. A relatively large songbird, it has a largely grey body with a black head, an untidy crest, white streaks on the throat, and a pale bill. It is roughly the same size as its close relative the Eurasian jay, but a little more slender overall.
Region
Himalayas and Hindu Kush
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern Afghanistan through northern Pakistan and northwestern India into Nepal along the Himalayan foothills and mid-elevations. Prefers open coniferous and mixed oak forests, deodar stands, scrubby hillsides, and mosaics of fields, orchards, and villages. Often uses forest edges and clearings where cover and foraging opportunities are close together. In winter it may descend into lower valleys and human-modified landscapes.
Altitude Range
500–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A close relative of the Eurasian jay, the black-headed jay is slimmer with a distinctive black head and scruffy crest. It frequents forest edges, orchards, and villages, often moving in pairs or small family groups. Like other jays, it caches seeds and acorns, inadvertently aiding forest regeneration.
In Faridabad, Haryana, India
Temperament
alert and wary, yet adaptable near people
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with glides; strong and agile
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species foraging flocks. Builds a cup nest in trees; both sexes share feeding duties. Known to cache food in hidden spots for later use.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocal repertoire dominated by harsh, rasping jay-like screams and scolds. Also produces softer chatters and occasional warbling notes; capable of mimicry.
