Birds of Ireland: Magpie

Glossy black and white bodies and wings with a beautiful iridescent blue-green sheen on their back and tail feathers, both sexes of magpies appear similar

The old superstition says that two magpies together are a sign of impending joy.

Magpie (Snag breac / Pica pica)

Magpies are around 42-50cm in length with a wingspan of 56cm. They are a common breeding species found here all year around on farmland, in gardens and in urban and suburban areas.