The Javan green magpie is a passerine bird in the crow family, Corvidae, endemic to montane forests on the island of Western Java, Indonesia. This critically endangered species was once more widespread, but it has suffered significant population declines due to habitat loss and illegal capture for the wild animal trade.
Region
Sunda Islands (West Java)
Typical Environment
Occurs in dense, evergreen montane and submontane forests, favoring mature canopy with thick understory and mossy growth. It frequents forest interiors, ridgelines, bamboo thickets, and edges near clearings or streams, where cover is abundant. The species is most often detected by voice as it moves through mid-story strata. Remaining strongholds include protected highland parks in western Java.
Altitude Range
800–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Javan green magpie is a striking corvid restricted to the montane forests of western Java, Indonesia, and is listed as Critically Endangered due to trapping and habitat loss. Its vivid green plumage depends on dietary pigments; birds deprived of these often turn bluish in captivity. Conservation breeding and reintroduction programs in Java are working to prevent its extinction.
A pair and their dark-beaked young at Prague Zoo, a part of the EAZA breeding program
Temperament
secretive and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense cover
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups that maintain territories year-round. Nests are shallow cup structures placed in dense vegetation or small trees. Both parents participate in nest building and feeding of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Varied series of clear whistles mixed with harsh, scolding calls typical of corvids. Vocalizations carry through forest understory and are often the first sign of the bird’s presence.
