Australian Animals
Student Name: Phuong Anh Phan
Animal: Magpie
Common Name: Australian Magpie
Biological name: Gymnorhina tibicen
Description
The adult Australian magpie is a fairly robust bird ranging from 37 to 43 cm (14.5 to 17 in) in length, with black and white plumage, gold brown eyes and a solid wedge-shaped bluish-white and black bill
Habitat
Common and widespread, it has adapted well to human habitation
Location
Parks, gardens and farmland in Australia and New Guinea
Diet
Australian magpies are omnivorous. They eat invertebrates such as earthworms, millipedes, snails, spiders, and scorpions as well as a wide variety of insects - cockroaches, ants, beetles, cicadas, moths and caterpillars and other larvae. Their diet may also include skinks, frogs, mice, and other small animals as well as grain, tubers, figs, and walnuts.
Conservation Status
Magpies are protected throughout NSW, and it is against the law to kill the birds, collect their eggs, or harm their young
Interesting Facts
Australian magpies are described as one of Australia's most accomplished songbirds. They have an array of complex vocalizations and can mimic over 35 species of native and introduced birds, as well as dogs and horses. Magpies can even mimic human speech when living in close proximity to humans.
Websites