Coming home from a visit to Ft. Collins, Colorado, I took a brief detour through Rocky Mountain National Park. Very few animals out as it was getting on in the morning, but this Jay did pose politely. I think it is a Stellar, but ID help is appreciated.
Nikon D300, 80-400mm@400, f/8, 1/2000, ev -0.67, iso 400, handheld
It's a Steller's Jay alright David. Like the pose and the BG. Light seems a little harsh, and the head would benefit from a bit of extra sharpening. Thanks for posting!
Lovely pose and the tiny seed the bird is holding is a bonus. Nice clean BG and good composition. Somewhat harsh light and point of focus mentioned. But this is a very nice image.
David, pretty bird, I've never seen one. Looks like you did well for the harsh light - nearly banished that shadow and it doesn't interfere. Very nice background color to set off the bird, and agree that the seed in the bill adds that much more.