Black-billed Magpie

The black-billed magpie, or Pica hudsonia, is a striking member of the corvid family, boasting a contrasting plumage of black and white with iridescent blue-green wings and tail. This medium-sized bird, measuring 45–60 cm from beak to tail tip, is known for its long, layered tail feathers and oblong black beak.

Identification Tips

Adult black-billed magpies have black irises and exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males being slightly larger and heavier than females. Juveniles can be identified by their grey irises, less iridescent plumage, and the absence of elongated tail feathers.

Habitat

This species thrives in open habitats with clusters of trees, including meadows and suburban areas. They are also commonly found in farmlands and near human habitation.

Distribution

The black-billed magpie is found in the western half of North America, ranging from coastal southern Alaska through the Rocky Mountains and into the northern states of the Midwest.

Behaviour

These birds are known for their intelligence and adaptability. They often form long-term pair bonds and are known to aggressively defend their nests. They exhibit a variety of foraging behaviors, including scavenging and hunting small animals.

Song & Calls

The black-billed magpie's vocal repertoire includes tweets, coos, purrs, and squawks, with a distinctive alarm call resembling a "ka-ka-ka-ka." Their calls differ notably from those of the Eurasian magpie.

Breeding

Magpies typically form monogamous pairs and build large, domed nests near the tops of trees. The female incubates the eggs, which number around six to seven, for 16–21 days. The young are altricial and are fed by both parents until they can fly at three to four weeks of age.

Similar Species

The black-billed magpie can be distinguished from the yellow-billed magpie by its beak color and longer tail. It is also similar in appearance to the Eurasian magpie but can be differentiated by size, tail length, and vocalizations.

Diet and Feeding

An opportunistic omnivore, the black-billed magpie feeds on carrion, insects, seeds, berries, and occasionally small vertebrates. They are known to cache food and are adept at scavenging from predator kills or gleaning ticks from large mammals.

Conservation status

The black-billed magpie is currently listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN, with a stable population across its range. It is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States, with some exceptions for control under specific circumstances.