Steller's Jays inhabit coniferous forests in the Western United States. It's not hard to tell when they're nearby; their harsh, crow-like calls pierce the forest soundscape with ease. Steller's Jays are omnivores, eating insects, seeds, nuts, berries, and nestlings. Garbage and unattended picnics are convenient food sources wherever humans are present. To save for the winter, these birds stow snacks in underground caches. However, sometimes they forget where they bury their treasure, inadvertently helping to plant new trees. That makes them unknowing but quite effective foresters!
