DCHP-1 Online

Canada jay

• a gray, crestless jay, Perisoreus canadensis.

  See also: camp robber  lumberjack (def. 2)  moosebird  whisky-jack (def. 1)  

  • This bird, common throughout the Canadian forests, has been known by many names, over thirty of which have been recorded. Most of these names are entered in the dictionary, but in the interests of economy only those most widely used are noted above.

  • 1772  The Canada Jay is confined to the northern parts of America, visiting the southern parts only in very severe weather, as it does not regularly migrate.
  • 1863  They would never permit the Canada Jay . . . to enter their lodges, lest they should have pains in the head.
  • 1963  Without consulting us Canadian members, they [the American Ornithologists' Union] have changed the official name of the whisky jack from Canada jay to grey jay.