Eurasian Magpie (Common Magpie)

A stunning example of corvid plumage, showing the characteristic blue-green sheen that appears black in shadow but brilliant in sunlight. The bird itself is a large, long-tailed black and white passerine with a resourceful and inquisitive nature.

Deep black base pigment with intense structural cyan-blue to teal iridescence on the outer vane and part of the inner vane. The underside is a matte brownish-black.

Densely pennaceous and interlocked in the iridescent section; the base shows some plumulaceous (downy) barbs for insulation. The barbs are mostly intact but showing some separation near the base.

Glossy and metallic on the upper surface due to structural coloration; smooth and stiff to the touch. The leading edge is firm.

Intense blue-teal iridescence on a black feather base, specifically shaped as a secondary wing feather.

Open countryside, parklands, gardens, and urban edges; prefers areas with scattered trees and short grass for foraging.

Widespread resident across Europe, Asia, and Northwest Africa. Non-migratory.

Omnivorous scavenger and predator; plays a role in controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds. Often acts as a 'sentinel' bird, alerting others to predators.

Azure-winged Magpie (more uniform blue), Blue Jay (distinct light blue bands, North America only), or Black-billed Magpie (nearly identical, North America).

Magpies are among the most intelligent animals; they are one of the few non-mammal species known to pass the 'mirror test' for self-recognition.

Fair to Good. There is significant mechanical damage (missing barbs) on the lower trailing edge and some debris near the calamus, suggesting it may have been pulled or faced heavy weather before molting.