Platysmurus leucopterus
The Malayan Black Magpie, *Platysmurus leucopterus*, is a striking and distinctive member of the Corvidae family, instantly recognizable by its glossy black plumage contrasted sharply with prominent white patches on its wings. Averaging 38-41 cm in length, including its relatively long tail, this species possesses a heavy black bill and distinctive red irises. Its generic name, *Platysmurus*, is monotypic, underscoring its unique evolutionary path within the crow and jay family; it is not a '...
This species primarily inhabits lowland and hill evergreen and mixed deciduous forests, preferring the dense canopy and sub-canopy layers. It can be found from sea level up to elevations of approximately 1200 meters, sometimes venturing into mature secondary growth or rubber plantations.
Their diet is omnivorous, consisting mainly of large insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars, supplemented with small vertebrates like lizards. They also consume fruits and berries, gleaning items from foliage and branches in the forest canopy.
The Malayan Black Magpie is a diurnal species, typically observed singly, in pairs, or small family groups, actively foraging through the mid-story and canopy. They are agile and acrobatic, hopping and clambering through branches as they search for food. Foraging involves gleaning insects from fo...
The Malayan Black Magpie is a resident species, with its distribution centered throughout the humid lowland and lower montane forests of Southeast Asia. Its range extends across the Malay Peninsula, encompassing southern Myanmar, southern Thailand, and Peninsular Malaysia. Further east, isolated ...
Least Concern
- The scientific name *leucopterus* directly translates to 'white-winged,' a clear reference to its most distinguishing feature. - Despite its 'magpie' common name, the Malayan Black Magpie belongs to a monotypic genus, *Platysmurus*, making it evolutionarily distinct from the true magpies (genus...