Eurasian Magpie

A highly intelligent and recognizable bird. It is a large crow with a striking black-and-white pattern and a very long tail. Close up, its feathers show an iridescent sheen of blue, green, and purple. It is a successful resident bird found in farmland, parks, and gardens across Europe.

Magpies are bold and social. They build large, domed stick nests that often have a 'roof' for protection. They are omnivores and eat seeds, insects, carrion, and eggs. They have a complex social life. They have been observed gathering in 'funerals' around deceased members of their species.