Ornithologists recognize three different Eurasian Magpie subspecies groups: “Eurasian,” “Iberian,” and “Kamchatkan.” The widespread “Eurasian” group occurs across most of Europe and much of Asia. The “Iberian” group, confined to the Iberian Peninsula, has a black rump, whereas the “Eurasian” group has a gray band across the rump. The “Kamchatkan” group, found in and around Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, shows alternating white and black in the folded wingtips.
Identification
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Common and conspicuous, this flashy, long-tailed crow relative is unmistakable, and its loud chattering calls are a familiar sound in many areas. Found in open and semiopen areas from farmland and open woodland to towns and gardens, singly or more often in pairs or groups. Bulky stick nest often conspicuous in tall tree or hedgerow. Boldly pied plumage is distinctive, with white belly, white back, and white wing patches. Wings show blue-green gloss in good light.
Relative Size
Larger than a Eurasian Blackbird and smaller than a Rook.
between robin and crowMeasurements
- Both Sexes
- Length: 18.1-19.7 in (46-50 cm)
- Weight: 6.5-9.4 oz (185-268 g)
