Blue Jay Cyanocitta cristata

The Blue Jay, an Almanac

• They do say the Blue Jay sees more than it lets on.
• Science teaches, whatever the peasantry may hold, that the specimen weighs a half-pound, dressed, from which much may be inferred.
• Those up the holler will tell you that a feather of it carried to the salt marsh and back keeps your milk cow safe another year.
• When the Blue Jay walks the cider press instead of flying, look to your good name.
• It was once gravely held that where the Blue Jay nests, the bread won't rise.

Folklore, invented on the spot — not to be believed.