Violaceous Jay (Cyanocorax violaceus)

The Violaceous Jay (Cyanocorax violaceus) is a species of bird in the family Corvidae, the crows and their allies.

DSCN2070a DSCN2071Since my blurry photo doesn’t do justice to this beautiful bird, here’s the wikipedia shot for reference.

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They have quite a large range in in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. I saw this one at the Anangu Village near Napo Wildlife Center.

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LEARN MORE ABOUT VIOLACEOUS JAYS

Wikipedia

Birdlife

Neotropical Birds

VIDEOS

This one looks nervous.

This one’s just hungry!

 

A Visit To The Anangu Community Near Napo Wildlife Center

One of the best things about the Napo Wildlife Center is that the whole project is run by the local community and all the profits are retained in the local area.  This is the best outcome for eco-tourism as it provides a good income for people who might otherwise be tempted by the wild bird trade.  The village where these people live is right near the parrot clay licks and we had a nice visit there for lunch and a quick visit around the village and the craft market.

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RestroomsDSCN2053

Restaurant where traditional food was served.  My husband had fish and I had the vegetarian option as I don’t eat fish.  The carved tables and chairs are gorgeous!DSCN2052 DSCN2054 DSCN2055 DSCN2056 DSCN2057

The craft shop was awesome!  The carved birds were of excellent quality and very realistic.  Once I found out I could charge my purchases to my room and pay by credit card, I went nuts!  DSCN2058 DSCN2059 DSCN2060

You have to see them in person to appreciate them.  The birds range in price around $10-20 depending on size and detail so were well worth it!DSCN2060a DSCN2061

Of course one of these cute Cobalt-winged parakeets came home with me!DSCN2061a DSCN2062 DSCN2063 DSCN2064

I also bought a Paradise Tanager, Hoatzin, White-throated Toucan, Dusky-headed Parakeet & Black-headed Parrot which are all decorating my bedroom wall.DSCN2065

T-shirts were on the small side.DSCN2066

After being dragged out of the craft shop, we saw some pretty cool birds!  Here’s a Spot-breasted Woodpecker.DSCN2069

My blurry photo doesn’t do justice to this beautiful Violaceous Jay.DSCN2070a DSCN2071

Our guide Vladimir and 2 of his kids.DSCN2072

I think this village also has accommodation so it’s a good option that would be cheaper than staying at Napo Wildlife Center but still a sister property and you could spend more time learning about the culture.