Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog – Post #16

By Jim Gain

4/25/2023

• Scientific Name: Psilorhinus morio
• Name in Spanish (Mexico): Chara Pea
• ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: BRJA
• Family: Corvidae – Crows, Jays, and Magpies
• Order: Passeriformes – Perching Birds

Brown Jays (Cyanocorax morio) are relatively large, and predominately are dark brown with a pale buff brown or pale white vent and belly. They are found throughout Central America, including Belize. Brown Jays are highly social and form tight-knit groups of up to 20 individuals that work together to defend territories and locate food.

In Belize, Brown Jays are found in a variety of habitats, from open woodlands and savannas to dense forests. They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.

During the breeding season, which typically occurs from March to June, Brown Jays build cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubs and lay up to five eggs. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs and caring for the young. Despite being common and widespread, the Brown Jay is a beautiful and fascinating bird that plays an important role in the ecology of Belize.

>> Next Post on Friday, 4/28/2023 – White-wiskered Puffbird

Below are the most recent Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog Posts

• White Ibis
• Limpkin
• Anhinga
• Scaly-breasted Hummingbird
• Gray-breasted Martin