Magpie

Magpies are familiar birds whose shared English name can conceal important differences. True magpies in the crow family often have long tails and take varied plant and animal foods. The Australian magpie has a different body shape and family relationship and is known for its musical warbling and ground foraging. Both can live near people, but their nesting, social life and calls should be described separately. Identification requires location as well as plumage.