From Opus

Pica pica

Photo by henkdikkers

Photo by teodor

[edit] Identification

Black head, neck, breast and back. Prominent white side patches and belly
Wings and tail, whilst looking black in certain lights, are actually bluey-green and purple
Very long tail, diamond-shaped when spread out.

[edit] Distribution

Europe and Asia. Whilst there are 'pockets' (notably Edinburgh and Aberdeen), it is absent from most parts of Scotland.

[edit] Taxonomy

This species was formerly considered conspecific with Black-billed Magpie P. hudsonia. About 12 subspecies are recognized. This is a thread discussing possible splits from this group of subspecies, with sericea and bottanensis the strongest contenders(?).

[edit] Habitat

Farmland and open country. Also town gardens and parks.

[edit] Behaviour

Walks and will hop sideways.

[edit] Flight

Quick, with deep, fast, even wing beats. Short glides.

[edit] Breeding

Builds a domed nest in tall trees, or hedgerows which often contains shiny objects

[edit] Vocalisation

Harsh "chack, chack, chack".

[edit] References

1. Birdwatchers Pocket Guide ISBN 1-85732-804-3
2. Collins Pocket Guide to British Birds 1966
3. Collins Field Guid 5th Edition

[edit] External Links

This link searches for "Common Magpie"