Yellow-billed Magpie
NameYellow-billed Magpie
Common NameYellow-billed Magpie
Scientific NamePica nuttalli
FamilyCorvidae
Wingspan (cm)63.5
Length (cm)45.5
Weight (g)165
Plumage DetailsGlossy black head, breast, back, and a long, graduated tail. The belly is bright white, and large white patches are visible on the primary wing feathers, especially in flight. The wings and tail exhibit an iridescent blue-green sheen in good light. It has a distinctive bright yellow bill and a yellow bare patch around the eye.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of harsh, chattering calls such as 'mag?' or 'chek?', as well as whistles and squawks. They are known to be quite noisy and can mimic other bird calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Central Valley and associated foothills of California, USA, primarily west of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Identifying FeaturesBright yellow bill, Yellow bare skin around the eye, Black and white plumage with iridescent blue-green sheen on wings and tail, Large white wing patches visible in flight, Long, graduated tail
Description
The Yellow-billed Magpie is a striking black and white bird with iridescent blue-green wings and tail, distinguished by its bright yellow bill and eye-ring. Endemic to California, these social birds are known for their intelligence and complex vocalizations, often found foraging in groups.
