Urocissa caerulea
The Taiwan Blue Magpie, *Urocissa caerulea*, is a truly spectacular corvid endemic to Taiwan, revered as its national bird. Measuring an impressive 64–65 cm (25–26 in) in length, nearly two-thirds of which can be attributed to its magnificent tail, this species is instantly recognizable. Its plumage features a vibrant deep blue body, a contrasting black head, neck, and throat, and striking white patches on the wings and undertail coverts. A prominent coral-red bill and legs complete its strik...
Predominantly inhabits broadleaf forests and mixed woodlands at mid-to-low elevations, ranging from 300 to 1,200 meters (1,000–4,000 feet), but can occasionally be found in lower elevation agricultural areas or even suburban parks with sufficient tree cover.
Omnivorous, consisting of fruits, berries, seeds, insects (especially caterpillars, grasshoppers), small reptiles, eggs, and nestlings of other birds; often forages by gleaning from trees and probing on the ground.
Taiwan Blue Magpies are diurnal and highly social, often observed in family groups of three to eight individuals, though larger flocks can form outside the breeding season. They are omnivorous foragers, meticulously searching for food both in the canopy and on the forest floor, using their strong...
The Taiwan Blue Magpie is entirely endemic to the island of Taiwan, found across the central and southern parts of the island. Its distribution is primarily confined to the forested mountain ranges, generally between 300 to 1,200 meters (1,000–4,000 feet) in elevation, though occasional sightings...
Least Concern
- The Taiwan Blue Magpie is the official national bird of Taiwan, designated in 2007. - Its tail can be up to two-thirds of its total body length, making it one of the longest-tailed corvids. - They are known for their strong cooperative breeding behavior, where "helpers" (often previous offsprin...