FAMILY NAME: Artamidae SCIENTIFIC NAME: Gymnorhina tibicen SUBSPECIES: 8 in total
SIZE: 36 to 44cm. (14 to 17") tip to tail.
LOCATION: Found over the entire continent of Australia, except in the very arid centre, and densley wooded areas.
BREEDING: Breeding season is from June to December, laying from 2 to 5 eggs. The nest is a platform of sticks built high in trees, and lined with grass and leaves. During nesting, they can become very aggressive toward anything near their nest site.
GENERAL: A black and white bird, with different patterns, depending on the sub-species. The "tibicen" or "black backed" magpie, is black with white nape, shoulders and vent area. The bill is greyish white, and the eye chestnut. They form groups of 20 or more birds and protect their home territory. Their call is melodious and carolling.
References:
Michael Morecombe. Field Guide to Australian Birds, Complete Compact Edtion.
Ken Simpson - Nicholas Day. The Birds of Australia.
M. Blakers - S. J. J. F. Davies - P. N. Reilly. The Atlas of Australian Birds.
Birds in Backyards. www.birdsinbackyards.net
