Yellow-Billed Magpie
Eureka
About Eureka
Magpies of both genders spend a period of weeks building a very large nest. The nest can be nearly 3 feet across. They use large sticks for a base, then follow up with mud and cow or horse dung to assure it has a solid foundation. Then they line the nest with hair, grass, bark, and roots. Once that is completed, they make sure their babies are extra safe by creating a cover over the top of the nest to keep away any aerial predators.
Yellow-Billed Magpie Facts
Pica Nuttalli
Range: Central California
Habitat: Yellow Billed Magpies are permanent residents in open oak woodlands and grassy oak savannas of central California. They like to inhabit tree species such as a variety of Oak trees, Western Sycamores, Gray and Monterey Pine, Monterey Cypress and Black Cottonwood.
Height: 17-20" Wingspan: 24" Weight: 5-6 oz (150-170 gms)
Voice: Both sexes give a set of rapid harsh calls
Life span in the wild: 7-8 years
Nesting: In natural tree cavities or woodpecker holes
Monogamous: They form long term pairs that appear to be monogamous but have seen copulation occur outside of these partnerships.
Diet and Habits: Feed largely on the ground on insects and other invertebrates, plant matter (acorns and grain). They also can be seen eating trash, dog food, roadkill and other carrion. They are visual hunters, walking along until they spot food then quickly seizing prey.
Interesting Info:
Yellow-Billed Magpies are only found in California!