Common green magpie

The common green magpie is a member of the crow family, roughly the size of the Eurasian jay or slightly smaller. In the wild, specimens are usually a bright and lush green in colour, slightly lighter on the underside and have a thick black stripe from the bill through the eyes to the nape. Compared to that of the other members of its genus, the white-tipped tail is quite long. This all contrasts vividly with the red fleshy eye rims, bill and legs. The wings are reddish maroon.

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Distribution

Region

Southeast Asia and southern China

Typical Environment

Occurs in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, bamboo thickets, and dense secondary growth from northeastern India and Myanmar through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and into southern China. Prefers well-vegetated hillsides, ravines, and forest edges near streams. Often forages in the midstory and lower canopy but will also drop to the ground for prey. Tolerates some habitat disturbance if dense cover remains, but relies on continuous forest for nesting.

Altitude Range

200–2600 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Characteristics

Size33–37 cm

Wing Span45–52 cm

Male Weight0.19 kg

Female Weight0.17 kg

Life Expectancy10 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

This striking corvid’s vivid green color comes from yellow carotenoid pigments; in captivity or on a poor diet the plumage can shift toward turquoise-blue as pigments fade. It moves with agility through dense undergrowth, often hunting stealthily for insects and small vertebrates. Pairs maintain territories and both parents help rear the young.

Gallery

In bluish plumage due to lack of lutein, Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand

Common Green Magpie, Nepal

Behaviour

Temperament

wary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with agile, weaving flights through cover

Social Behavior

Usually seen in pairs or small family parties that keep close contact while moving through dense vegetation. Builds a neat cup nest in shrubs or small trees; both sexes participate in nest building and feeding the young. Territorial displays include chasing intruders and loud scolding calls.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Vocalizations include sharp chattering, harsh scolds, and fluty whistles. Calls carry well through forest and are used to maintain contact and advertise territory.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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