BirdAnalyst
Species · California · BBS 2025 Release · 1966–2024

Pinyon Jay Population Trend in California

All statesGeneralists

Pinyon Jay in California has surged: up 84% on the route-weighted index since 1970.

+84%Since 1970
34Routes In State
56Years

Notable Pinyon Jay Trends in California

long arc increasecomputed index

Pinyon Jay has surged in California: up 84% on the route-weighted index since 1970.

Pinyon Jay Population Forecast in California

If the recent trend holds, Pinyon Jay in California is projected to rise about 84% by 2029 — from 0.43 in 2024 to a central estimate of 0.79 (95% range 0.00–1.6). A 5-year backtest shows a typical error of ±97%, with 100% of held-out values landing inside the 95% band.

+84%Change by 2029
0.79Projected 2029 index
0.00–1.695% range
±97%Backtest error
19682029
Projection of the recent trend (dashed) with 80/95% bands — a projection, not a prediction. Habitat, climate, and land use are not modeled.
YearProjected index95% low95% high
20250.750.001.6
20260.760.001.6
20270.770.001.6
20280.780.001.6
20290.790.001.6

Pinyon Jay Survey Routes in California

Routes recording Pinyon Jay in California.
Crowley Lake3720041973
Deep Springs2220121972
Woodlands2020242016
Bridgeport1519741973
Anza1519761974
Benton1320241975
Bodie720241982
Death Valley719941994
Ravendale620011990
Nubieber520072003
Clear Lk Res520161975
Lockwood Val520031970
Lake Hemet419861974
Cholla Gard.320121995
Pine Mountain320161998
Mt Pinos319941974
Green Valley220221970
Dardanelle219991999
Big Pine220231968
Little Truckee219971997
Davis Creek220001990
Crestview220192004
Big Bear219791969
Anza 2220172006
Cima219911970

Pinyon Jay Population Trend in Other States

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Source: USGS North American Breeding Bird Survey, retrieved 2026-05-22.