Australian magpie is a songbird known for the wide variety and pitch of its calls. Its black and white plumage (feathers) looks similar to that of the European magpie. However, the Australian magpie is not the same kind of bird as the European or the American magpie. The Australian magpie is closely related to the butcherbird and the currawong. It is native to southern New Guinea and most of Australia. It can also be found in New Zealand and Taveuni Island in Fiji. 
The Australian magpie has many different subspecies. Magpies that live further south are generally larger in size than the northern ones. However, the subspecies that is established in Tasmania is relatively small. The bird’s wingspread can range from 25 to 33 inches (65 to 85 centimeters). Magpies fly, but the bird spends much of its time on the ground. Australian magpie plumage also varies with habitat. Magpies have a white—for males—or gray —for females—nape (neck), shoulder, and tail. The rest of the plumage is usually black. Several southern and Tasmanian subspecies have a white back and rump.
Australian magpies produce a loud flutelike song to communicate. Two or more magpies will often call together. Magpies have also been known to imitate sounds in their environment.
Australian magpies eat earthworms, spiders, scorpions, and a variety of insects. They have also been known to eat small animals such as frogs and mice, as well as grains and nuts.
Australian magpies have a long mating season. The timing of the season depends on the bird’s habitat. Male magpies living in urban environments have been known to attack humans during mating season. Female magpies build platform nests of sticks and line the interior with grass. A female magpie lays about two to five eggs at a time. The eggs are light blue or green in color. After hatching, the chicks are fed by their mother. They learn to fly at around a month old. Young magpies can stay with their parents for months or years before being forced to leave.
