Black-billed Magpie

This is a primary wing feather from a Black-billed Magpie, a large, social corvid known for its long tail and bold black-and-white plumage. In flight, these white primary patches create a distinctive flickering effect.

Striking contrast of iridescent black (with blue-green sheen) on the outer web/tip and a large white interior patch on the inner web.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs on the majority of the vane, transitioning to a small plumulaceous section near the base (calamus).

Smooth and glossy on the black sections with a slight structural iridescence; stiff, aerodynamic vane texture.

Large white patch on the inner vane of a dark primary feather; distinct iridescent sheen on the black portions.

Open woodlands, meadows, riparian thickets, and suburban areas across Western North America.

Resident across Western North America, from southern Alaska through western Canada down to the Southwestern United States.

Omnivorous scavenger and predator; plays a role in pest control and as an alarm system for other wildlife regarding predators.

Eurasian Magpie (Pica pica) feathers are nearly identical but found in a different geographic range; Yellow-billed Magpie (Pica nuttalli) has similar feathers but is restricted to California.

Magpies are one of the few non-mammal species capable of recognizing themselves in a mirror test, indicating high intelligence.

Good condition; the vane is mostly intact with minor wear at the edges (fraying) and some loose down at the base.