The passerine birds of the genus Aphelocoma include the scrub-jays and relatives. They are found in the western United States, with an outlying population in Florida. They live in open pine-oak forests, chaparral, and cloudforests.
Aphelocoma jays are slightly larger than the Blue Jay and differ in having a longer tail, slightly shorter, more rounded wings, and no crest on the head. The top of the head, nape, and sides of the head are a rich deep blue. Some species have a white stripe above the eye and dark ear coverts. The breast is also white or grey-white and the back is a grey-brown contrasting with the bright blue tail and wings in most species. The bill, legs, and feet are black.
