Sri Lanka Blue-Magpie
NameSri Lanka Blue-Magpie
Common NameSri Lanka Blue-Magpie
Scientific NameUrocissa ornata
FamilyCorvidae
Wingspan (cm)47
Length (cm)44.5
Weight (g)195
Plumage DetailsThe head, neck, and breast are a rich chestnut-brown. The rest of the body plumage is a vivid blue, becoming lighter on the belly. The wings are blue-brown, and the very long, graduated tail is blue with prominent white tips. The bill, legs, and a distinct orbital ring around the eye are bright coral-red.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of harsh chattering and grating notes, as well as distinctive flute-like whistles. Common calls are described as 'chink-chink' or 'krak-krak'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeEndemic to the wet zone forests of southwestern Sri Lanka, inhabiting both lowland rainforests and montane cloud forests up to elevations of about 2,100 meters.
Identifying FeaturesVibrant blue body plumage, Chestnut-brown head and neck, Bright red bill, legs, and eye-ring, Long, graduated blue tail with white tips, Distinctive harsh and whistling calls
Description
The Sri Lanka Blue-Magpie is a striking, medium-sized magpie endemic to the island of Sri Lanka. It is known for its vibrant blue body, contrasting chestnut head, and long tail, often observed foraging in the mid-canopy of dense wet evergreen forests.
