The black-collared jay is a jay found in Andean forests in Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela. It was formerly considered conspecific with the white-collared jay.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane and cloud forests of the Andes of Colombia, Ecuador, and western Venezuela. It favors mature forest but also uses forest edges, secondary growth, and elfin forest near treeline. Birds typically forage in the midstory to canopy and may join mixed-species flocks. The range is patchy where forest has been cleared, but the species persists in several protected areas.
Altitude Range
1500–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black-collared jay is a high-Andean corvid that travels in small, noisy parties through cloud-forest canopies. It was once lumped with the white-collared jay but is now treated as a separate species based on plumage and range differences. Like many jays, it caches food and likely helps disperse seeds while also preying on insects and small vertebrates.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct dashes between trees
Social Behavior
Usually found in small family groups or loose parties that move noisily through the canopy. Pairs likely defend a territory during breeding and nest well concealed in dense foliage. They sometimes accompany mixed-species flocks while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are varied, including harsh scolds, nasal yelps, and chattering series typical of jays. Calls carry far through the forest and are often used to maintain contact within groups.
