They're evidently not happy as larks in America! (4,4)

I believe the answer is:

blue jays

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'larks in america' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both animals as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I can't see?

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for blue jays that I've seen is " American birds - Toronto baseball team".)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.