Nesting Steller's jay

[Gord]

I enjoyed watching a pair of Steller's jay building a nest today. They were not too far into the construction. A lot of twigs were brought as well as some grasses. Both birds shared in the building but didnt seem to care that I was not more than 20 feet away and obviously observing them. However, when other jays came near, nest building stopped and spirited chasing ensued. I guess my musing "would a jay raid another jay's nest?" was answered. I found it neat that they would stop building until the other jays were well away leading me to believe that there were concerns of these jays remembering the nest for later eating. Who else to better know the tricks of jays than a jay themselves? ;D It was odd that my presence was of no concern. When I spotted nesting activity from a distance I figured they would stop when I got closer. But no, they remained busy as I approached and even as I stopped to watch. Given the nest's location being fairly exposed and a suitable hiding spot nearby, there might be opportunities for good photos without risking the nest or young. We will see if this opportunity remains!

A picture of one that landed near me before heading to the nest to add a twig.