Species Guide: Magpie (Pica pica)
Family: Corvidae
APPEARANCE
Magpies, known for their striking iridescent black and white plumage and long tails, are highly recognizable birds that capture attention with their inquisitive nature. They hold a notable presence in folklore and superstitions across Europe.
Predominantly black-colored birds have become associated with evil in many European cultures, and Magpies, despite their black and white coloring, got labeled as being the harbinger of bad luck. Significantly, even in modern times, some people in the British Isles enact ritualistic and highly irrational behaviors based on seeing Magpies and how many they saw. These deep-rooted behaviors can be traced back to William Shakespeare’s time.
Diet
Magpies are omnivores consuming for example; insects, small mammals, grains, and berries. They will also scavenge carrion.
HABITAT
Magpies are common across most of Britain and Ireland, except for the northern and northwestern parts of Scotland. In the past, they were heavily hunted in Britain, but their numbers increased in the late 20th century as hunting decreased. They can be found in a diverse range of habitats, but seem to favor human-populated areas.
Behavior
Magpies can be quite playful, often pulling and shaking objects found in your garden. Young magpies may form small flocks, especially in winter, when some adults may join them. Interestingly, Magpies may hold “funerals” for deceased magpies. Nesting-wise, magpies build dome-shaped nests in a variety of locations, including trees, shrubs, utility poles, and even abandoned buildings.
Their most recognizable call is a repeated “chac-chac,” often made when excited. Magpies can also mimic the sounds of other animals including humans.
Magpie Call:
David Darrell-Lambert, xeno-canto.org
Magpies mate for life with the breeding season starting in April or May. They build nests out of sticks, mud, plant fiber, and hair, normally high in the tree canopy, and have 1 brood per year, which consists of up to 6 eggs. The eggs are incubated for 20 days by the female. Once hatched the nestlings are fully fledged after 26 to 31 days2.
Biometrics
Key biometric3 features of the Magpie are:
- Wing Length: 173-198 mm
- Weight: 171-254 grams
- Longevity: 5 Years
NATURAL PREDATORS
Magpie birds are acutely aware of their environment and sound the alarm when they spot predators such as owls, foxes, cats, and raptors. Consequently, they can outsmart most predators, though they can occasionally fall prey to the Eurasian Sparrowhawk.
Conservation Status
Historically, Magpies faced heavy persecution, but their populations have rebounded since the late 20th century as these pressures have lessened, although they still face control measures in some areas.
U.K.
Conservation Status
Global
Conservation Status
