Magpie  (Pica pica)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Description

The common magpie is an unmistakable species with its black and white plumage, and iridescent green or blue glossy sheen (2). The tail is long, and is usually longer in males than females (2). Its harsh voice includes a fast chattering alarm call; the 'mag' part of the common name used to mean 'chatterer' (6), and was added to 'pie' (referring to the black and white 'pied' colouring) in the 16th century (7).

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