The Bornean black magpie, also known as the black crested magpie, is a treepie in the family Corvidae. It is endemic to the Southeast Asian island of Borneo.
Region
Borneo
Typical Environment
Endemic to the island of Borneo, occurring in Malaysia (Sabah, Sarawak), Brunei, and Indonesian Kalimantan. It favors primary and well-structured secondary lowland and hill dipterocarp forests, and also occurs in forest edge, logged forest, and heath (kerangas) forest. Birds typically forage from the mid-story to the canopy and occasionally descend to lower strata along edges or clearings.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite the name, it is a treepie rather than a true magpie, within the crow family Corvidae. It sports a distinctive shaggy crest and often moves in small, noisy parties through the mid- to upper canopy. Habitat loss from deforestation in Borneo is a key concern for this species.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides between canopy gaps
Social Behavior
Usually travels in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks. Nests are placed in trees and both sexes likely share in rearing duties, as is typical for corvids. Territorial calling and display crest-raising are used to maintain group cohesion.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are mostly harsh, jay-like rasping calls, chatters, and scolds. It also gives whistles and repeated nasal notes that carry through the forest. Calling often increases during group movements or at territory boundaries.
Plumage
Uniform glossy black with a shaggy, erectable crest; plumage has a subtle bluish sheen in good light; long, graduated tail.
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore feeding on large insects, caterpillars, and other arthropods, as well as small vertebrates such as lizards or nestlings. It also consumes fruits and figs, and may take eggs when available. Foraging often involves probing bark, foliage-gleaning, and sallying to snatch prey.
Preferred Environment
Primarily forages in the mid- to upper canopy of mature or semi-mature forest. Frequently works forest edges, gaps, and along ridgelines where prey is more exposed. Occasionally descends to lower levels near clearings or along tracks.
