The dwarf jay is a species of bird in the family Corvidae. It is native to the sierra Madre de Oaxaca (Mexico). Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, specifically comprising an oak-pine mix. As its name would imply, this is the smallest member of the family Corvidae at 20–23 cm long and weighing 41 g. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Sierra Madre de Oaxaca
Typical Environment
Found in humid montane pine–oak and cloud forests with dense epiphytes and mossy understory. It favors mature forest interiors and edges, moving through the midstory and canopy in small parties. The species is patchily distributed where suitable high-elevation forest persists and tends to avoid heavily degraded or isolated fragments. It may descend locally to slightly lower elevations along moist ravines during dry periods.
Altitude Range
1600–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The dwarf jay is the smallest member of the crow and jay family (Corvidae), measuring only about 20–23 cm. It is a shy, canopy-dwelling species restricted to the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca in southern Mexico. Its dependence on mature, epiphyte-rich pine–oak and cloud forests makes it sensitive to logging and habitat fragmentation.
Temperament
secretive and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees with brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Nests are placed in trees, with both parents caring for the young. Birds maintain loose territories and communicate with soft calls while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include soft, scolding chatters and harsh rasping notes, interspersed with thin whistles. Calls are often given from cover and may be easily overlooked amid forest background noise.
Plumage
Compact jay with deep cobalt-blue upperparts and paler blue underparts, contrasting black face and throat, and subtle pale eyebrow. The wings and tail are blue with darker tones, and the overall plumage appears velvety in shaded forest light.
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore, taking insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates gleaned from foliage and bark. It also consumes berries, small fruits, and acorns when available. Occasional small vertebrates or eggs may be taken opportunistically.
Preferred Environment
Forages mostly in the midstory and canopy of humid pine–oak and cloud forests, probing epiphyte mats and mossy branches. It will visit forest edges and along streams but avoids open areas.
