One of my favorite birds to see in the woods is the eastern blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata). They are beautifully colored and there is never a dull moment when they’re around. They usually arrive vocalizing, and they have quite a wide vocabulary that can range from a loud screech to the soft “whisper call” used to attract mates. They are often brash and bold and have a reputation for being bullies, although the ones around here haven’t been. They’re intelligent and playful and will toss and catch food, pick up and drop sticks and twigs, and sometimes race around like fools. This one was hunting insects along one of the tree branches, but it appeared to be skipping along like a small, happy child. Something about its body language just exuded joyfulness and confidence. It made one happy just to watch it.