Geographic range:
Neotropical: Endemic to W Mexico - Pacific slope from S Sonora to
Jalisco and NW Colima.
Physical characteristics: Large
jay (60 - 75 cm) with very long conspicuous tail and visible crest.
Head, crest and throat is black, as well as legs and bill. Nape and
upperparts are metallic blue. Underparts are white. Pale blue
subocular patch.
Food habits: Insects, fruit, seeds
and small vertebrates.
Reproduction: Possibly a cooperative
breeder (as many other species of jays). Eggs are whitish, with brownish
and gray spots. Typical clutch has 3 - 7 eggs. In the south of its
range apparently interbreeds with White -throated Magpie Jay, likely
resulting in presence of intermediate characters in the offspring.
Behavior: Usually seen in groups
or pairs. Conspicuous bird. Flies with slow wing beats. Voice varied,
loud, often resembling cries of large parrots.
Habitat: Arid to semihumid woodland, semiopen areas. |
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