Aphelocoma ultramarina
The Transvolcanic Jay (Aphelocoma ultramarina) is a striking, medium-sized corvid endemic to the high-elevation forests of central Mexico. Measuring approximately 28-30 cm (11-12 in) in length with a weight typically ranging from 100-120 grams (3.5-4.2 oz), its plumage is a rich, deep ultramarine blue, appearing slightly paler on the underparts and darker on the back and wings. Distinctive field marks include its entirely blue coloration, lacking any crest or white markings often found in oth...
This jay inhabits high-elevation montane pine-oak, fir, and mixed evergreen forests, typically found between 1,500 and 3,000 meters (4,900-9,800 feet) above sea level.
Transvolcanic Jays are omnivorous, feeding primarily on acorns, pine seeds, a wide variety of insects, and sometimes small fruits; they primarily forage by gleaning and caching.
Transvolcanic Jays are diurnal birds, active from dawn to dusk, and typically roost communally or in small family groups within dense forest canopy. Foraging occurs both in trees, where they glean insects and pick seeds, and on the ground, where they search for acorns and other fallen mast; they ...
The Transvolcanic Jay is strictly resident and endemic to the high-elevation montane forests of central Mexico. Its geographic distribution is confined to the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, spanning from Michoacán in the west, through the State of Mexico and Distrito Federal, eastward into parts of...
Least Concern
- The Transvolcanic Jay was historically considered a subspecies of the Mexican Jay (*Aphelocoma wollweberi*) or even the Unicolored Jay (*Aphelocoma unicolor*) before being recognized as a distinct species based on genetic analysis and unique vocalizations. - Its common name directly references ...