The white-tailed jay, also known as the moustached jay, is a species of bird in the crow family Corvidae. It is found in Ecuador and Peru. It has a black face with white spots above and below the eyes, and a small white moustachial stripe. It has a white nape, belly, and underparts. Its back and wings are greyish-blue, extending most of the way down the tail. The retrices and tail tip are white. It has several calls, the most common being described as "cha-cha-cha-cha".
Region
Tumbesian dry forests of western Ecuador and northwest Peru
Typical Environment
Occurs primarily in the Tumbes–Piura dry forest belt and adjacent western Ecuadorian lowlands. It favors dry deciduous forest, thorn scrub, semi-open woodlands, and edges with scattered tall trees. It readily uses secondary growth, riparian thickets, and plantations near native habitat. Often found from the understory to the canopy, especially along forest margins and clearings.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the moustached jay, it is a striking corvid with a bold white tail that flashes in flight. It is vocal and inquisitive, often moving in small, noisy parties through dry forests. Like many jays, it is an opportunistic feeder and may cache food. Its bright yellow eyes set off the black facial mask and white moustachial stripe.
A drawing of the white-tailed jay done by de Sparre
An adult white-tailed jay
Feeding on papaya in Ecuador
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, bounding flights between trees
Social Behavior
Usually travels in pairs or small family groups that keep in contact with loud calls. Nests are placed in trees or tall shrubs, and both parents help raise the young. Territorial displays include chasing intruders and group mobbing of predators.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal repertoire includes harsh scolds, chatters, and the characteristic repeated 'cha-cha-cha-cha' call. Calls carry well through dry forest and are used to maintain group cohesion and advertise territory.
