Island Scrub-jay vs Eurasian Magpie

Aphelocoma insularis compared with Pica pica

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Side-by-Side Comparison

Attribute Island Scrub-jay Eurasian Magpie
Scientific Name Aphelocoma insularis Pica pica
Order Passeriformes Passeriformes
Family Corvidae Corvidae
Conservation Status Not Evaluated Least Concern
Length 46.0 cm (18.1 in)
Wingspan 56.0 cm (22.0 in)
Weight 115.75 g (4.08 oz) 220.0 g (7.76 oz)
Diet -- Omnivorous — insects, grains, berries, carrion, eggs, and nestlings. Caches surplus food for later retrieval.
Clutch Size 2-5 2-8
Population Trend
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Size Comparison

Body Length
Island Scrub-jay
Eurasian Magpie 46.0 cm
Wingspan
Island Scrub-jay
Eurasian Magpie 56.0 cm
Weight
Island Scrub-jay 115.75 g
Eurasian Magpie 220.0 g
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Habitat Comparison

Shared Habitats

None

Island Scrub-jay only

Eurasian Magpie only

None

Eurasian Magpie

Open woodland, farmland, hedgerows, parks, and gardens. Common in suburban and urban environments across Eurasia.

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Song & Call Comparison

Island Scrub-jay

Eurasian Magpie

Song

A harsh, rapid chattering 'chach-chach-chach'. Also gives a variety of whistles and clucking notes. Known to mimic other birds and sounds. Very vocal in pairs.

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Geographic Range & Migration

Island Scrub-jay

Eurasian Magpie

Europe, Asia, and northwest Africa. One of the most recognizable birds across the Palearctic region.

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Conservation Status

Not Evaluated

Island Scrub-jay

Least Concern

Eurasian Magpie

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How to Tell Them Apart

Island Scrub-jay

Eurasian Magpie

Plumage

Bold black and white pattern with iridescent blue-green gloss on the wings and long graduated tail. White scapulars and flanks contrast with the black body.

Bill

Strong, straight black bill

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About These Birds

Eurasian Magpie

The Eurasian magpie is one of the most intelligent animals on Earth and the first non-mammal demonstrated to recognize itself in a mirror. These bold corvids build elaborate domed nests of sticks and have a well-known attraction to shiny objects, though this reputation may be exaggerated.

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Related Comparisons

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