Join Aiken Audubon Society as Corey Anco presents on May 20, 2026 via Zoom about

Corvids and Conifers: Pinyon Jays in Wyoming’s Bighorn Basin

Presenter: Corey Anco, Willis McDonald, IV Curator of Natural Science, Draper Natural History Museum, Buffalo Bill Center of the West

Pinyon Jay (Gymnorhinus cynaocephalus) sightings and flock sizes have declined significantly since the 1960s. While the reasons for this decline vary by location, very little is known about the Pinyon Jay near the northern extent of its distribution. In 2024, the Draper Natural History Museum, in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management, Museum of Wildlife and Fish Biology at the University of California, Davis, Northwest College, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service initiated a study to characterize habitat use by Pinyon Jays across limber-pine woodlands in Wyoming’s Bighorn Basin. In this presentation, we’ll share highlights from the first few field seasons of this project and explore the Pinyon Jay’s curious relationship with seed-bearing pines.

Corey Anco is the Willis McDonald, IV Curator of Natural Science at the Draper Museum. He holds a B.S. in Environmental Science from Lewis University, a Master of Environmental Management from Duke University, and an M.S. from Fordham University. At the Draper Natural History Museum, Corey’s research focuses on understudied species and ecosystems, addressing knowledge gaps to support emerging management and conservation needs of state and federal resource agencies. His interest in Pinyon Jays stems from their complex social structure, unique adaptations, and resilience in harsh, arid environments.

This is an in-person meeting held at the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Office; 4255 Sinton Road 80907. Our entrance to the building is located on the EAST side (back side) of the building; not the main entrance. Parking is encouraged in the south and west parking lots.

If you would prefer to attend via zoom, here is the link:

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/5770180765?pwd=ZaUy7qRz4askuBDWbOkvv3yaxEmdTH.1&omn=85079933786

Doors Open: 6:30pm
Meeting announcements: 7:00pm
Program Presentation: 7:15pm

photo credit: Corey Anco