SAVING JEMIMA: LIFE AND LOVE WITH A HARD-LUCK JAY

SAVING JEMIMA: LIFE AND LOVE WITH A HARD-LUCK JAY by Julie Zickefoose

When I picked this book up to start reading, I didn't realize National Bird Day was around the corner. Growing up we fed the birds, and I have continued that tradition in my own home. I call them "my butterflies in the winter." They are bright spots in the gray and whites of the season. One type I enjoy watching is the blue jays. Saving Jemima is the story of bird rescuer Julie Zickefoose's experience with a blue jay fledgling, and I wanted to get a deeper peek into their behaviors, likes and dislikes. How fun it was to learn that Julie is located just south of us in Marietta, Ohio. She definitely shared the raw ins and outs of dealing with baby birds. It is not an easy journey, and success is not guaranteed. Since reading the book I find myself searching for jays more actively. I have a group of 7 that will come and feed. Little side note, a group of Jays is referred to as a party or a band. Makes sense doesn't it with their raucous calls?! I haven't zeroed in on defining features between my birds yet, but boy are they fun to watch!