The black-billed magpie, a prominent avian resident of the American West, commands attention with its striking features. Sporting iridescent feathers, a long tail, white breаst, and contrasting black head and back, this sizable bird is a common sight across both urban and rural landscapes.

Found at various elevations, from lowlands to mountainous regions, corvids like magpies, crows, jays, and ravens roam wide expanses in search of sustenance.

Intriguingly, the black-billed magpie exhibits a diverse diet, feeding on an array of prey including grasshoppers, beetles, carrion, and small rodents. Their adaptability to diverse environments contributes to their widespread distribution.

 

One fascinating aspect of black-billed magpies is their nest-building prowess. Constructed from twigs, branches, and other materials, their nests resemble enormous bushel baskets, reaching diameters of up to a meter. With openings on both sides for access and departure, these nests serve as sturdy abodes for raising their young.