Yucatan Jay

Overview

The Yucatan Jay (Cyanocorax yucatanicus) is a species of bird in the family Corvidae, native to the Yucatán Peninsula. It is a common species with a wide range and a stable population, classified as 'Least Concern' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Identification

• Adults measure approximately 30–33 cm in length and feature a black head, nape, and underparts contrasted with sharp blue wings, mantle, and tail.
• Possess black irises, black bills, and yellow legs and feet, with no visible sexual dimorphism in plumage.
• Immature birds distinguish themselves by having yellow bills, whereas adults have entirely black bills.

Habitat

Found primarily in the Yucatán Peninsula, including northern Belize, northern Guatemala, and the Mexican states of Yucatán, Quintana Roo, Campeche, Chiapas, and Tabasco. It inhabits subtropical or tropical dry forests, plantations, cleared areas, and coastal scrub up to elevations of 500 m.

Did you know?

Although the adult eye ring is black, immature birds exhibit yellow eye rings that darken gradually over the first three years of life, mirroring the progression of their bill coloration.