Species

By Ray Scott (rayxray)

Cyanocorax purpuratus

The Banded Purple Jay is a medium-sized passerine bird native to temperate deciduous forests of North America. It is distinguished by its dark charcoal-gray plumage contrasted with semi-iridescent purple flight feathers and a broad, wedge-shaped tail marked by four black bands. Like other jays, it is highly intelligent, vocal, and opportunistically omnivorous. Subtle sexual dimorphism occurs: males tend to exhibit richer purple coloration on the primaries and possess slightly larger plumicorns. The species is notably inquisitive and is known to investigate, manipulate, and occasionally damage objects within its territory; individuals have been documented dismantling outdoor equipment, prying open unsecured containers, and attacking small unmanned aerial drones. Highly social, Banded Purple Jays typically live in mixed-generational groups of 12–15 individuals but have been recorded forming flocks numbering in the hundreds during seasonal migrations.

Range: Eastern and central North America, from southern Canada through the Great Lakes region and into the Mid-Atlantic and Appalachian states.

Habitat: Temperate deciduous forests, mixed woodlands, and forest edges; frequently observed in suburban areas with mature tree cover.

Size: 110–135 g (3.9–4.8 oz); 26–31 cm (10.2–12.2 in) in length; wingspan 36–41 cm (14.2–16.1 in).

Life Span: 10–14 years in the wild; up to 18 years in captivity.

Feeding: Omnivorous. Diet includes acorns and other nuts, soft mast (such as berries and fruits), insects, small vertebrates, eggs, and occasional carrion. Caching behavior is common, particularly in autumn.

Reproduction: Seasonally monogamous. Though they often choose the same partner over multiple seasons, they are a non-monogamous species. Breeding occurs from late April through early June. Clutches typically contain 2–4 pale speckled eggs. Incubation lasts 16–18 days, primarily by the female while the male provisions her but they have been known to switch roles. Fledglings leave the nest at 20–23 days and may remain in family groups into early autumn. Sexual maturity is reached at one year.

Conservation Status: Least Concern. Populations are stable across most of the range, and the species adapts well to fragmented forests and human-modified landscapes. 

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