The Australian Magpie
Australian magpies are a medium sized black and white bird native to both Australia and New Guinea. All magpies have a black head, belly, and tail, featuring patches of white. Magpies look slightly different in different parts of Australia, but they all have a brownish-red coloured eye. This is an easy way to tell them apart from currawongs, which have yellow eyes and Australian ravens, which have white eyes. They are omnivores that walk along the ground, probing and picking food from soil and grass. They eat many invertebrates and larvae and sometimes small mammals, lizards and snakes.
The scientific name for the Australian magpie is Gymnorhina tibicen. Australian magpies are mostly active during the day. Sometimes, they might call out at night. They usually stay in one area and protect their territory. Magpies live in groups that claim a certain area. They have adapted well to living near people and you can often see them in parks, gardens, and farms
Did you know?
Magpies Recognize Your Face: Magpies are so smart that they can remember specific human faces for years. If you are kind to them, they may remember you as a friend; if not, they might remember you as a threat.
They Are Expert Mimics: Beyond their beautiful, melodic songs (which sound like a flute), magpies can mimic over 35 species of other birds, as well as dogs, horses, and even human speech.
Only a Few Swoop: While famous for swooping during "swooping season" (spring), only about 8-10% of magpies actually swoop to protect their nests. They rarely attack people they know, and therefore do not consider a threat.
They Love to Play: Magpies are highly social and intelligent, often engaging in fun behaviors like play-fighting, sliding down slippery roofs, and sunbathing with their wings spread out.
Society Members Archie and Billie looking after a beautiful Australian Magpie on a very hot afternoon in Bright.