Pica hudsonia
The Black-billed Magpie, *Pica hudsonia*, is a striking and intelligent corvid native to western North America. This large passerine measures 45-60 cm (17.5-24 in) in length, with a wingspan of 56-61 cm (22-24 in) and a weight of 145-210 g (5.1-7.4 oz). Its plumage is predominantly iridescent black on the head, breast, back, wings, and an exceptionally long, graduated tail, sharply contrasted by crisp white patches on the shoulders and belly. Key field marks include its stout black bill and t...
Found in open country with scattered trees and shrubs, including riparian woodlands, savannas, grasslands, agricultural lands, and urban/suburban parks. Prefers edge habitats and avoids dense forests or treeless plains, from sea level to over 3000 meters (10,000 feet) in elevation.
Omnivorous and opportunistic, primarily consuming insects, carrion, small mammals, birds, eggs, and nestlings, supplemented with seeds, berries, and human food scraps. Forages by walking and hopping on the ground, gleaning from vegetation, and scavenging.
Black-billed Magpies are diurnal, spending much of their day foraging on the ground or in conspicuous perches. They are highly opportunistic omnivores, walking or hopping while probing with their bill, and are known to cache surplus food, especially during colder months. Monogamous pairs defend a...
The Black-billed Magpie is widely distributed across western North America. Its breeding range extends from Alaska and much of western and central Canada (including Yukon, Northwest Territories, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba) south through the western United States. In the...
Least Concern
- The Black-billed Magpie's tail can be as long as its entire body, making it one of the longest-tailed birds relative to body size in North America. - They are highly intelligent, capable of complex problem-solving and some degree of tool use, rivaling parrots and apes in cognitive abilities. - ...