Nucifraga
columbiana
"Camp Robbers"
Resourceful and entertaining, Clark's Nutcrackers can often be found foraging in the evergreens at
Mirror Lake in Utah's Unita Mountains. They can be heard from afar because of their loud,
raucous calls. Many a camper has been visited by these gregarious "Camp Robbers" since
they love to sneak snacks from picnic areas. The smaller Gray Jays, also called "Camp Robbers"
by most campers, are of the same family as the Nutcrackers and will also quickly steal a free meal.
Both of these birds store nuts for the harsh winters and can remember where they've hidden most
of them. This allows for earlier nesting and hatching of broods. Nutcracker males help incubate eggs in
the nest, unlike most of the Corvids, and actually form a brood patch for keeping the eggs warm.
We love those helpful fathers! © Carol Davis, 8-30-07
"Camp Robbers"
Resourceful and entertaining, Clark's Nutcrackers can often be found foraging in the evergreens at
Mirror Lake in Utah's Unita Mountains. They can be heard from afar because of their loud,
raucous calls. Many a camper has been visited by these gregarious "Camp Robbers" since
they love to sneak snacks from picnic areas. The smaller Gray Jays, also called "Camp Robbers"
by most campers, are of the same family as the Nutcrackers and will also quickly steal a free meal.
Both of these birds store nuts for the harsh winters and can remember where they've hidden most
of them. This allows for earlier nesting and hatching of broods. Nutcracker males help incubate eggs in
the nest, unlike most of the Corvids, and actually form a brood patch for keeping the eggs warm.
We love those helpful fathers! © Carol Davis, 8-30-07