Oriental Magpie

Identification

The Oriental magpie is a striking black-and-white bird measuring 45 centimetres in length. Compared to its close relative, the Eurasian magpie, it is slightly smaller with a proportionally shorter tail, though it has a longer bill and tarsi (lower legs). The plumage is notably darker than the Eurasian magpie, with less white overall. The back, tail, and flight feathers display iridescent blue or green tones, while the rump is predominantly black with a narrow greyish-white band that connects the distinctive white shoulder patches. Two subspecies exist: the southern P. s. serica and the northern P. s. anderssoni, which is slightly larger and marginally paler, though the two intergrade extensively.

The Oriental magpie's call is identical to that of the Eurasian magpie, though characteristically softer in tone, making it a useful identification clue for experienced birders.

Range & Habitat

The Oriental magpie's range spans from southeastern Russia through eastern China, Korea, Taiwan, and northern Indochina to Myanmar. The northern subspecies (P. s. anderssoni) inhabits southeastern Russia, far northeastern China, and the Korean Peninsula, while the southern subspecies (P. s. serica) is found from northern Myanmar east to eastern China and Taiwan, extending south into northern Indochina. The species has also become naturalised in Japan, where populations were first established in northwestern Kyushu approximately 400 years ago by Korean immigrants, with a more recent population establishing in southern Hokkaido since the early 1990s.

Behaviour & Diet

Like other members of the corvid family, the Oriental magpie is an intelligent and adaptable bird. As a member of the large radiation of corvids that includes crows, ravens, nutcrackers, and jays, it shares the behavioural complexity typical of this group. The species' long tail, shared with tropical Asian magpies and other basal corvids, may represent an ancestral trait within the corvid radiation.

Best Time & Places to See It

Travellers and photographers seeking the Oriental magpie should focus on East Asia, particularly China, Korea, and Taiwan within its native range. Japan offers accessible opportunities, especially in Kyushu and southern Hokkaido where naturalised populations are established. The species' cultural significance throughout East Asia means it is often relatively common in settled areas and accessible locations.

Photography Tips

The Oriental magpie's bold black-and-white plumage and iridescent blue-green tones in the flight feathers and back make it a rewarding photographic subject. Pay attention to capturing the subtle differences from Eurasian magpies: the darker overall plumage, shorter tail, and distinctive iridescence. The white shoulder patches and narrow greyish-white band across the black rump are key identifying features worth highlighting. Its softer call may help you locate birds in dense vegetation, allowing you to position yourself for optimal shots of this charismatic corvid.