Eurasian Magpie

Striking black and white plumage. The head, breast, and back are black. The belly and scapulars (shoulder feathers) are čist white. The wings and long wedge-shaped tail show a brilliant metallic green, blue, and purple iridescence. Juveniles are similar but have less iridescence and shorter tails.

Long, iridescent graduated tail; bold white belly and wing patches; black head and chest; harsh chattering call.

Length: 44-50 cm (including tail); Wingspan: 52-62 cm; Weight: 200-250 g.

Most common call is a harsh, rapid 'chak-chak-chak-chak'. They also perform a quiet, complex 'sub-song' during courtship.

Omnivorous and opportunistic. Consists of insects, carrion, eggs, small mammals, seeds, fruits, and human scraps.

Open countryside with scattered trees, meadows, parks, gardens, and increasingly urban and suburban areas.

Strictly resident; they generally do not migrate and remain in their territories year-round.

Builds large, domed nests of sticks lined with mud and fine roots, usually high in trees or thorny bushes. Lays 5-8 eggs. Pairs are generally monogamous.

Oriental Magpie (Pica serica) which is found in East Asia; Black-billed Magpie (Pica hudsonia) found in North America. Distinguished mainly by geographical range and subtle differences in size and vocalizations.

Acts as both a predator (controlling insect and small vertebrate populations) and a scavenger. Their large domed nests often provide nesting sites for other birds like kestrels and long-eared owls.

Least Concern (IUCN), with a stable or increasing population trend.

Easily spotted in open country, parks, and gardens. Look for their distinctive 'shack-shack' call and their habit of hopping on the ground or perching on high vantage points.

Magpies are among the most intelligent animals; they are one of the few non-mammal species known to pass the 'mirror test,' suggesting self-recognition. In many cultures, they are the subject of various superstitions and folklore.