Magpie (Pica pica)

The Magpie can be seen very commonly around the UK all year around, however the bird does not occupy the highland areas of Scotland.
The map below shows the approximate areas that the Magpie occupies.

http://www.rspb.org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/discoverandlearn/birdguide/name/m/magpie/index.aspx < image reference at this link.

The bird has a stunning pattern of white and black feathers across its body, making them stand out amongst other birds.
They can often be seen in pairs, and these pairs are referred to as mating pairs.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/ca/Korean_magpie_in_Daejeon_(side_profile).jpg < image reference at this link.

The Magpie has gained a reputation of being a bird who occasionally acts as a thief, with an attraction toward shiny object, which happens to be items like rings, jewellery, and metals.
They are also known for raiding other birds nests, most often the nests of songbirds, and this raiding has a negative effect on the population of these birds.

The magpie is an omnivore, as it eats both other creatures, as well as fruits and seeds.

http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01295/magpie_1295249c.jpg < image reference at this link.

The Magpie is a very intelligent bird, and have adapted very well to foraging in urban, and natural areas alike.
It is one of a few birds who can use items as tools.

http://www.rspb.org.uk/Images/magpie_tcm9-177909.jpg?width=1170&crop=(0,398,1400,982) < image reference at this link.

Magpies are part of the crow family of birds, and I really want to include these beautiful birds in my zine, because they are such a regular part of Britain's wildlife.
I have always liked the magpie, as I think they have a very interesting colour, and patten displayed through their feathers, and I also like how if you see a magpie in the wild, they very commonly travel in mating pairs.

http://www.oiseaux-birds.com/passeriformes/cracticides/cassican-fluteur/cassican-fluteur4.jpg < image reference at this link.

http://www.rspb.org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/discoverandlearn/birdguide/name/m/magpie/index.aspx









Thomas.