Beautiful Jay
NameBeautiful Jay
Common NameBeautiful Jay
Scientific NameCyanolyca pulchra
FamilyCorvidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)28.5
Weight (g)85
Plumage DetailsThe body plumage is a vibrant purplish-blue, transitioning to a deeper blue on the wings and tail. It features a prominent black face mask that extends from the base of the bill, through the eye, and onto the ear coverts. The crown and nape are a contrasting pale blue to whitish, and the bill and legs are black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh, raspy 'kraaah' or 'kree-ah' calls, often given in a series. They also produce softer, chattering notes and various other complex calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the humid montane forests of the western Andes, ranging from southwestern Colombia to northwestern Ecuador.
Identifying FeaturesDeep purplish-blue body plumage, Black face mask, Pale blue to whitish crown and nape, Black bill and legs
Description
The Beautiful Jay is a striking medium-sized jay characterized by its deep purplish-blue plumage, contrasting with a black face mask and a pale blue to whitish crown. It is an active and social bird, typically found foraging in the mid-story and canopy of humid montane forests.
