The Taiwan blue magpie, also called the Taiwan magpie, Formosan blue magpie, or the "long-tailed mountain lady", is a bird species in the crow family. It is endemic to Taiwan.
Region
Taiwan
Typical Environment
Occurs in low- to mid-elevation broadleaf forests and forest edges across much of Taiwan, especially in hilly and mountainous terrain. It favors secondary growth, ravines, and wooded valleys with dense understory. The species often ventures into rural areas and parklands adjacent to forest. Family parties range along ridgelines and streams, using tall trees for foraging and nesting.
Altitude Range
300–1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Formosan blue magpie or “long-tailed mountain lady,” it is a striking corvid known for bold, inquisitive behavior. It often practices cooperative breeding, with older offspring helping raise new broods. Family groups are noisy and will mob predators. The species is a cultural icon in Taiwan and adapts well to forest edges near human settlements.
Taiwan blue magpie in flight
Temperament
social and bold
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile glides between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen in noisy family groups that move through the canopy in loose lines. Pairs form strong bonds and nest in tall trees using stick nests. Cooperative breeding is common, with helpers assisting in territory defense and feeding nestlings. They vigorously mob raptors and other intruders.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud and varied, including harsh scolds, rattles, and cackling notes. Groups often call antiphonally while moving, and individuals can deliver mellow whistles in quieter contexts.
Plumage
Glossy black head and upper breast with rich cobalt-blue body and wings; very long, graduated tail with bold white tips and terminal band.
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore feeding on fruits, seeds, and berries, as well as insects, spiders, and other invertebrates. It will take small vertebrates, eggs, and nestlings when available. Carrion and human food scraps may be exploited near settlements. Food is often cached for later consumption.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the forest canopy and midstory, along edges, and in secondary growth. Frequently descends to the ground or visits clearings and trails to pick up fallen fruit and invertebrates. Readily uses forested parks and rural fringes close to natural woodland.
