Eurasian Magpie

Eurasian Magpie
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Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia;
Phylum:	Chordata;
Class:	Aves;
Order:	Passeriformes;
Family:	Corvidae;
Genus:	Pica;
Species:	Pica pica;

The Eurasian Magpie (Pica pica), is a common bird, member of the corvid family, known for their liking to shiny objects. They are also known as the Common and European Magpie. They are considered some of the most intelligent of birds, as well as some of the most intelligent of non-human animals in general; they can recognize themself in a mirror, display highly complex social lives, and cut food into the proper size for their babies

Appearance[]

Eurasian Magpies have black heads and backs as well as a black chest. They have blue wings with a white stripe. Males may have longer tails than females.

Habits[]

Magpies often raid other birds' nests and even mob larger birds to steal their food. They often pick up shiny objects - scientists have confirmed that this is merely for pleasure. If a predator threatens, the flock will chase it away.

Feeding[]

Magpies are omnivorous and will eat pretty much anything, from seeds to invertebrates, mice, voles, lizards, chicks and eggs, and human food.

Nesting[]

Magpies like areas with trees which have a clearing near by. Their nests are dome shaped and have a roof, the are made out of sticks. Their eggs are blueish green and they lay 2 to 8.

Distribution[]

Eurasian Magpies inhabit heavily human populated areas in most of Europe and Asia.

Similar Species[]

Oriental Magpie
Black-billed Magpie