Azure-hooded Jay Cyanolyca cucullata Scientific name definitions

The Azure-hooded Jay is found at mid-elevations from southeastern Mexico to western Panama. The bright sky blue hood that gives the species its name can be difficult to see as birds forage in thick vegetation of the subcanopy and edges of humid montane forest.  They are best detected by their explosive calls, given while traveling in pairs or small flocks of 3 - 5 individuals. Near the nest, however, Azure-hooded Jays can be surprisingly quiet.