Magpies: Beyond Black and White

Introduction to Magpies

Magpies, members of the crow family Corvidae, are often depicted as having black and white plumage. This iconic appearance is most commonly associated with species like the Eurasian Magpie (Pica pica) and the Australian Magpie (Cracticus tibicen). However, this is not always the case, and magpies can come in a variety of color patterns depending on the species and individual bird.

Black and White: The Classic Appearance

Several magpie species are indeed predominantly black and white, with some featuring iridescent blues and greens. The classic appearance is exemplified by the Eurasian Magpie, which has black and white plumage with blue and green shimmering wings and tail. The Australian Magpie, on the other hand, retains the black and white coloration but can exhibit variations, with some birds sporting more brown or grey tones.

Color Variations in Magpies

While black and white remains the most widely recognized color scheme, other species of magpies may exhibit different color patterns. For instance, the Black-billed Magpie (Pica hatz africa) and the Yellow-billed Magpie (Pica nuttalli) from the genus Pica are both black and white, albeit with the Yellow-billed Magpie featuring a striking yellow bill. Other genera, such as Cyanopica and Cissa, show more vibrant hues, with green and blue markings.

Cross-Genus Magpies and Coloration

The diversity of coloration among magpies is further illustrated by the species belonging to the genus Cissa, such as the Common Green Magpie (Cissa chinensis) from Thailand, which displays green and blue markings. Similarly, the Iberian Magpie (Cyanopica cooki) from Spain and the Taiwan Blue Magpie (Urocissa caerulea) showcase vivid blues and greys.

My Experience with Magpies

Based on my observations, magpies are primarily found in regions like Idaho and Oregon, while scrub jays are commonly seen in other areas. These birds share similar ecosystems and habitats, leading to a distinct line between their distributions. While individual variations in color and rare genetic mutations may occur, they are relatively uncommon and do not significantly alter the overall appearance of these birds.

Conclusion

Despite the widespread belief that magpies are always black and white, this is far from the whole truth. Experience and scientific observation reveal a diverse array of color patterns within the magpie family. From the iridescent blues and greens of the Eurasian Magpie to the vibrant greens and blues of the Common Green Magpie, these birds display a remarkable range of colors and patterns.