|
|
Photo: Because of their long legs, Australian Magpies can walk unlike other birds that hop.
Previous Kookaburra Next Rainbow Lorrikeets
Animals and Places
- Australian Native Fauna: Where to See Them
- Australia Wildlife Parks
- Feral Animals in Australian National Parks
- Fauna of the Flinders Ranges
- Kangaroos Australia
Animals
Marsupials
Native Birdlife
- Australia Birds
- Birdlife NSW South Coast
- Australia Parrots
- Sea Eagle Bournda National Park
- Australian Birds of Prey
- Sulphur Crested Cockatoo
- Glossy Black Cockatoo
- Rainbow Lorrikeets
- Magpie
- Kookaburra
Water
- Australian Seals
- Saltwater Crocodiles
- Sharks in Australian Waters
- Whales of the NSW South Coast
- Whale Song Symphonies
Australia Tourist Guide
Magpie
These black and white passerine birds can be seen and heard not only in Australia but as far as north as Southern New Guinea. Adults range from 37 to 43 cm long, they also spend quite a bit of time on the ground looking for food, which includes animals such as small rodents and invertebrates. Like humans they are omniverous.
These birds have been recorded mimicking everything from other birds to domestic animals and humans. Their own calls can be very complex, yet distinct. Often, one or more Magpies will call one another, particularly in the early morning or at dusk. Any Australian having been overseas will recognise this call as a sign they are home, as with the Kookaburra.
In the Spring (September - October - November)
When protecting their nests and their territory, a small number of them are known to swoop. They can chase dogs and cats, even humans if they think their nest is threatened. Although rarely, they can cause actual injuries.
If you live near one of these during mating season, you may want to wear an appropriate sized plastic ice cream container on your head when out and about, though this is not guaranteed protection.
Australian Birdlife
About the National Parks in Australia: Australia National Parks. The National Parks and State Reserves are often the best places to spot native and migratory birdlife. There are also a number of amazing nature parks for people to visit:
- Healesville Sanctuary - Zoos Victoria. Situated in the beautiful Yarra Valley Region, about a one hour drive from Melbourne. See Healesville Sanctuary.
- Birdworld Kuranda - Cairns Queensland. This free flying bird sanctuary protects birds from all over earth as well as endangered species from Australia. See more Birdworld Kuranda.
- Sydney: Taronga Zoo - take the ferry from Circular Quay in the city for all kinds of wonderful animals.
- Phillip Island.
- Queensland Gold Coast - Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary see Gold Coast Queensland
Main Photo: Because of their long legs, Australian Magpies can walk unlike other birds that hop.
Search the Australia Tourist Guide |
Photo: On the Ground Magpies Walk