Common Magpie ( Pica pica )
Common Magpie - Common Magpie information - Common Magpie facts
The common magpie is spread all around Europe, then in eastern parts of Asia and in north-western parts of Africa. Its habitat is an open country or slightly wooded areas, then parks and cemeteries. Its nest is a dome-shaped pile of sticks fixed with mud. The grass inside the nest make it a lot more comfortable.
Pica pica is about 51 cm (20 inches) long, however half of this size belongs to the tail. The young have a lot shorter tail. Its plumage is rather dark. The head, neck, back, upper throat and belly are black. There is a white plumage in the abdomen area. The wings are black glossed with green or purple with white stripe on their end. The tail is black with a green gloss. The sexes are alike, however the cock may have a longer tail.
The magpie is mostly famous for raiding the nest of other birds. Consequently this is also the reason for the decline of songbirds. Magpies are often seen in small groups. They have got a very unique way of walking - they put their long tail up when walking. In danger they gather and together they protect themselves, mostly against cats. The hen has from 5 to 9 bluish-green eggs with dark brown markings. The hatching lasts from 17 to 18 days and the parents feed their young for another 24 days. They are omnivorous birds, they feed on insects, seeds etc. When seeking food, they often chase other birds, for instance gulls, to make them drop their food.
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