Magpie
Pica pica
Length 46cm

Familiar and unmistakable black and white bird. In good light, greenish blue sheen can be seen on rounded wings and long tail. Widespread and often common in much of Britain and Ireland but, in Scotland, absent from most upland areas. Builds large and untidy twig nest in bushes. Often seen in small groups outside breeding season, frequently uttering loud, rattling alarm call. An opportunistic feeder, taking insects, fruit, animal road kills, young birds and eggs.