Breeding:
- The black-throated magpie-jay is a territorial species and maintains its territory throughout the year.
- It breeds during the wet season, which varies depending on the region, but generally occurs from March to August in Mexico and Central America.
- Both sexes participate in building the nest, which is a large and cup-shaped structure made of twigs, bark, and leaves, and lined with soft materials such as grass, feathers, and moss.
- The nest is typically built high in a tree, at heights ranging from 10 to 25 meters (33 to 82 feet) above the ground.
- The female typically lays 2-4 eggs, which are incubated by both parents for approximately 18-20 days.
- Both parents also feed and care for the chicks, which fledge the nest at around 30-35 days after hatching.
- The fledglings remain dependent on their parents for food and protection for several months after leaving the nest.
Adult Life:
- The black-throated magpie-jay is a social bird and commonly forms flocks outside the breeding season. These flocks can range in size from a few individuals to several dozen birds.
- The birds spend much of their time foraging for food, which consists mainly of fruits, insects, and small vertebrates such as lizards, frogs, and nestling birds.
- They are known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of calls and songs used for communication, mate attraction, and territorial defense.
- Black-throated magpie-jays are opportunistic predators, and have been known to raid the nests of other birds and steal eggs or chicks.
- They may also engage in mobbing behavior towards larger predators or potential threats, working together to chase away intruders or defend their territory.
Lifespan:
- The lifespan of the black-throated magpie-jay in the wild is not precisely known, but it is estimated to be around 10-15 years.