it is not a true song, like most corvid songs. It is described as a mixture of harsh notes which are higher in pitch than most of the typical calls produced by this species, and mixed with click-gulping nasal notes. The songs exhibit significant variation. The birds are typically heard early in the day. The 'kraa' calls are given from conifer trees, at varying heights, while 'reek' calls have been recorded from birds perched some metres off the ground, and 'reer' call are typically observed from birds that are near or on the ground. Distribution and habitat It is found in eastern Afghanistan, north and western Pakistan, Kashmir, and northwestern India, with its range possibly extending to extreme southwestern parts of the Tibet Autonomous region in China. It inhabits coniferous forests and mixed conifer and oak forests, especially in forests composed of blue pine, Pinus gerardiana, and Morinda spruce. It is found from an altitude of , although it mainly stays with on alpine slopes. It may descend to lower altitudes in late summer to collect nuts for winter stores. It is also frequently attracted to human habitation. Behaviour and ecology Diet Its diet is similar to that of the Eurasian nutcracker. It feeds on conifer seeds, mainly from Morinda spruce, P. gerardiana, and acorns from holly oak. It has also been reported taking walnuts and hazelnuts for winter stores. Reproduction Breeding season is thought to be in May–July, but egg-laying is probably earlier, in February–March. Nest with live young have been observed as early as the second week of March in Himachal Pradesh. The breeding season in Afghanistan ends around late April to early May, indicating that the mays hatch around January to late February. It is a solitary nester, and has a single brood, though it may lay replacement eggs if the first egg is lost. Nests are typically placed close against the trunks of trees, at a height of in dense conifers. The nests are well-built and have a deep cup. The nests are made out of twigs, decorated with lichens, and are lined with soft roots and pine needles. Eggs are laid in clutches of 3–4 eggs. They are in size on average, and pale blue in color, with dense brown markings. Parents are thought to share incubation. Status The bird is not considered threatened. It is observed near human settlements in its range, suggesting that