The Iberian magpie is a bird in the crow family. It is 31–35 cm (12–14 in) long and similar in overall shape to the Eurasian magpie but is slenderer with proportionately smaller legs and bill. It belongs to the genus Cyanopica.
Region
Iberian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Occurs across western and central Spain and much of Portugal, with strongholds in traditional dehesa landscapes. It favors open woodlands of holm and cork oak, Mediterranean scrub, riparian groves, and mosaic farmland with scattered trees. It also uses parks and orchards near villages. The species avoids dense, closed forests and extensive treeless cropland, relying on shrub cover and low trees for nesting and refuge.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Iberian magpie is a highly social corvid that forages and nests in cooperative groups, with helpers assisting breeding pairs. It was once lumped with the East Asian azure-winged magpie, but genetic studies confirmed the Iberian population as a distinct species. Its striking black cap and sky-blue wings and tail make it unmistakable in Mediterranean oak landscapes.
Adult in Salvaterra de Magos, Santarém, Portugal
Cyanopica cooki - MHNT
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Lives in cohesive groups that forage together and often breed cooperatively, with non-breeding helpers assisting with nest defense and feeding young. Nests are placed in shrubs or low trees; clutches are typically medium-sized and well-defended by the group. Outside the breeding season, groups may form larger flocks around rich food sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal repertoire includes soft chattering, nasal calls, and rattling scolds, generally less harsh than the Eurasian magpie. Contact calls keep groups coordinated, while sharper alarm notes are given when predators approach.
