Bird alert! The Alberta Rockies are a most wonderful place to spot our flighty and feathery friends. Lucky for you, wonders abound when birding in the Rockies. Journey along with me today as we learn about three beautiful songbirds found in the mountain ranges of North America.
1. Steller’s Jay
Resting in the heart of the Rockies, the peaceful waters of Lake Louise mirror the surrounding snowcapped peaks. On the shores, however, you are hard pressed to find a moment of peace, for the crowds are thick and patience is thin as people jostle and clamor for photographs. Nonetheless, for one striking creature, the crowds are no deterrent. A most prominent triangular crest lies atop its head as it flits from branch to bench. It rather resembles a Blue Jay, though the crest is larger, and the plumage is a blend of sooty grey, charcoal black, and vivid blues below the head. This is, in fact, the Steller’s Jay.
The Steller’s Jay is a rather large songbird present year-round in the evergreen forests of the Rockies. Beware of these inquisitive birds at campgrounds, picnic areas, or parks, for they may swoop in to snatch a stray scrap of food.
Fun fact – Steller’s Jays are mimics, copying other birds and even four-legged creatures such as dogs and cats.
2. Clark’s Nutcracker
As you marvel at the majestic Steller’s Jay, watch out, for another bird may swoop in to greet you. Who could this be? Why, it is the Clark’s Nutcracker, a purplish grey songbird quite adept at burying those most delicious pine nuts. Their dagger-like bills are most useful tools to help with picking the seeds from pinecones. Found in mountain conifer forests, you may see them perched atop a pine or hear their rasping call echoing across the Rockies.
Just like the Steller’s Jay, you may spot the Clark’s Nutcracker scoping out the area for an easy scrap of food. However, being smaller than the Steller’s Jay, it may stand back and bide its time before swooping in.
Fun fact – the Clark’s Nutcracker hides thousands of seeds each year and even remembers where they are hidden!
3. Canada Jay
In the evergreen forests of Moraine Lake, you may spot the rather mischievous Canada Jay, sometimes called the Whiskey Jack or the Camp Robber. Though many birds are opportunistic feeders, this bird is singled out for its tendency to snatch food without notice. Why? Well, perhaps because marauding bands of Canada Jays are sure to be seen at a campsite or picnic spot searching for scraps. Should you embark on one of these three beautiful hikes near Moraine Lake, you may spot these Jays flitting about the bench marking the fork in the path, a common snack spot for weary hikers. These rather mischievous birds will hop about your feet, ready to snatch any fallen bits of food.
Now, at first glance, the Canada Jay appears similar to the Clark’s Nutcracker. However, upon closer look, you will notice the Canada Jay has a shorter bill, longer tail, and a darker grey rear crown. Fret not, over time, you shall spot the differences with ease, as these Jays are a common companion to those birding in the Rockies.
Fun fact – the Canada Jay’s sticky saliva helps it glue bits of food to tree crevices and other spots. A sticky snacking solution!
Final Remarks
Here was a sneak peek of three beautiful songbirds of the Rockies. As you venture out yourself, be mindful of the principles of Leave No Trace. Plan ahead, be considerate of others, and watch where you step. Lastly, while photos do serve as meaningful keepsakes, you will only fully experience the moment when you set aside the camera to enjoy the view through your eyes. Snap a couple of photos, but be sure to enjoy the experience without distraction, particularly when you are birding in the Rockies or anywhere, for that matter.
I hope you enjoy, and I look forward to sharing more unofficial wonders with you. Happy birding!
Thank you for journeying with me.
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