The Yucatan jay is a species of bird in the family Corvidae, the crows and their allies. It is native to the Yucatán Peninsula where its habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forest, plantations and cleared areas at altitudes up to 250 m (820 ft). Adults are about 30 cm (12 in) long, black, with blue wings, mantle, and tail, black bills, yellow eye rings and legs. Immature birds have yellow bills. This is a common species of jay with a wide range and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has rated its conservation status as being of "least concern".
Region
Yucatán Peninsula
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout the lowland Yucatán Peninsula in southeastern Mexico, northern Belize, and northern Guatemala. Prefers subtropical and tropical dry forest, semi-deciduous woodland, scrub, and forest edges. It also frequents plantations, ranchlands, and towns with scattered trees. The species thrives in secondary growth and open mosaics where it forages in small groups. It is largely restricted to the karstic lowlands and avoids dense, tall evergreen forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 250 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This jay is endemic to the Yucatán Peninsula and is often seen in noisy, cooperative flocks. Adults are glossy black with striking cobalt-blue wings, mantle, and tail, and show bright yellow eye-rings and legs; juveniles have yellow bills that darken with age. They are adaptable birds that readily use plantations and disturbed habitats. Groups may include helpers that assist breeding pairs with nest defense and chick rearing.
Juveniles have distinct white heads and bodies, but this fades within a few weeks of fledging
The yellow beak and eye rings begin to fade to black within their second year
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Forms small, cohesive groups that forage together and keep vocal contact. Breeding pairs are often assisted by helpers from previous broods. Nests are placed in trees or tall shrubs, and groups defend territories vigorously. They readily exploit human-modified areas while remaining wary of predators.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal repertoire dominated by loud, harsh scolds, squawks, and chattering calls used for group cohesion and alarm. Also produces whistles and chatter sequences that vary with context. Calls are frequent when foraging and during territorial disputes.
Plumage
Glossy black head, throat, and underparts with bright cobalt-blue mantle, wings, and tail; feathers are smooth and unbarred. Juveniles show paler bare parts and a yellow bill that turns black with maturity.
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore feeding on insects and other arthropods, fruits, and seeds. Will take small vertebrates, eggs, and nestlings when available. Forages by gleaning from foliage and branches, probing bark, and occasionally sallying to the ground. Often raids fruiting trees and follows disturbances to capture flushed prey.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open woodland, forest edge, clearings, and plantations with scattered trees. Frequently uses midstory and canopy but also descends to the ground for fallen fruit and invertebrates. Forages in small groups that spread out and keep in contact vocally.
