where are blue jays from

Blue jays are native to eastern and central North America. They are found from southern Canada throughout the eastern and central United States, south to Florida and northeastern Texas. Their range extends into southern Canada, including Newfoundland, Ontario, Quebec, and other provinces. The western edge of their range is generally the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains, where they are replaced by the closely related Steller's jay. Blue jays inhabit mixed woodlands, both deciduous and coniferous forests, and are common in residential areas, parks, and suburban environments. They prefer forests with oak and beech trees but can adapt well to human-modified landscapes. Some northern populations are migratory, moving southwards in winter, while others remain year-round residents in their range.