Feather Identifier app iconFeather Identifier
Eurasian Magpie (Common Magpie)
Tail (Rectrix)

Eurasian Magpie (Common Magpie)

Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Corvidae, Genus: Pica, Species: Pica pica

Family: Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)

Shape
Symmetrical vane with a slightly tapered, rounded tip; elongated and blade-like profile
Size
Approximately 20-25 cm in length; consistent with the central or near-central tail feathers of an adult Eurasian Magpie.
Rarity
Very Common; one of the most widely recognized and abundant corvids in its range.
Learn more about Eurasian Magpie (Common Magpie) in the encyclopedia →

Found a feather like this?

Identify any feather from a photo, free.

Identify a feather

Description

A long, elegant tail feather from a bird famous for its bold black-and-white plumage and long, wedge-shaped tail. The bird itself has a black head, chest, and back, with white belly and shoulder patches, and wings that shimmer with blue and green.

Colour & Pattern

Deep black base pigment with a strong iridescent structural coloration. It displays a vibrant emerald green to bronzy-purple sheen depending on the angle of light. The ventral (underside) is a matte brownish-black.

Barb Structure

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs; the vane is stiff and cohesive with high integrity, typical of structurally sound flight and tail feathers.

Texture & Surface

Smooth and glossy on the dorsal surface due to structural iridescence; the feather feels stiff and slightly oily, providing weather resistance.

Key Features

Extreme length for a passerine feather, combined with intense green-to-bronze iridescence and a dark, sturdy rachis.

Habitat

Open woodlands, agricultural fields, hedgerows, and increasingly common in urban parks and gardens.

Geographic Range

Found across Europe, much of Asia, and Northwest Africa. Resident (non-migratory) throughout most of its range.

Ecological Role

Omnivorous scavenger and predator; plays a vital role in pest control and as a sentinel for other species by mobbing larger predators.

Similar Species

Black-billed Magpie (Pica hudsonia) of North America is nearly identical but geographically separated; Yellow-billed Magpie (Pica nuttalli) has similar feathers but is restricted to California.

Interesting Facts

Magpies are among the most intelligent animals, having passed the 'mirror test,' suggesting self-awareness. They are also known for their complex social structures and 'funerals' for deceased members.

Condition Notes

Good condition; minor fraying at the tip and mid-vane suggests natural wear or molting stress, but the iridescence remains vivid.

Notes

I 100% know this is a magpie I just want to know what species it is

Eurasian Magpie (Common Magpie) | Feather Identifier