Mexican Jay
NameMexican Jay
Common NameMexican Jay
Scientific NameAphelocoma ultramarina
FamilyCorvidae
Wingspan (cm)40.5
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)110
Plumage DetailsThe head, wings, and tail are a deep, dull blue. The back is a slightly duller blue-gray, while the underparts are pale gray to whitish, particularly on the belly and undertail coverts. The throat and breast are also pale gray.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of harsh, scratchy calls, often described as 'wreeh-wreeh' or 'shreeenk,' along with softer chattering notes. They are quite vocal, especially when communicating within their social flocks.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the mountains of southeastern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and west-central Texas in the United States, extending south through the Sierra Madre Oriental and Occidental mountain ranges in Mexico.
Identifying Featuresdull blue head and upperparts, pale gray underparts, social flocking behavior, harsh calls, sturdy black bill
Description
The Mexican Jay is a medium-sized songbird characterized by its dull blue plumage on the head, wings, and tail, contrasting with a pale gray body. These highly social birds are typically found in noisy flocks, foraging in oak and pine-oak woodlands.
