Violaceous Jay
NameViolaceous Jay
Common NameViolaceous Jay
Scientific NameCyanocorax violaceus
FamilyCorvidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)35.5
Weight (g)205
Plumage DetailsThe head, throat, and upper breast are velvety black, with a prominent white patch on the nape extending to the sides of the neck. The rest of the body plumage, including the back, wings, and tail, is a dull violaceous blue, becoming paler and more grayish-violet on the underparts. The bill and legs are black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of harsh, raucous calls, often described as 'kraa-kraa-kraa' or 'churr-churr' notes, sometimes mixed with softer, more musical whistles.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Amazon basin and adjacent areas of northern South America, including parts of Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil.
Identifying Featuresvelvety black head and chest, white nape patch, violaceous blue body plumage, black bill and legs
Description
The Violaceous Jay is a striking medium-sized jay characterized by its dark head and chest contrasting with a pale violet-blue body. These social birds are often found foraging in small groups within the humid lowland and foothill forests of South America.
