Australian Magpie

The Australian Magpie is a medium-sized (37–43 cm (14.5–17 in) in length) black and white bird native to Australia and southern New Guinea. It is a fairly common bird and has adapted well to human habitation, being mostly seen in suburban backyards, parks and playgrounds.

The Australian Magpie

The magpie is notoriously territorial during its breeding season in Spring and many a pedestrian or bicycle rider has been swooped upon by these birds.

Two magpies on our rear deck

Australian Magpies have a musical, warbling call. For me, the call of the magpie (followed closely by that of common crow) is the quintessential sound of the Australian bush or outback.

If you want to hear the call of the Australian Magpie, click on the video I took in the YouTube link below. These are a couple of fairly tame magpies that occasionally visit the deck at the rear of our house.