Large black and white crow-like bird, with an extremely long tail. Sturdy yellow bill with curved culmen. Bright yellow skin around eye. Head, breast and back black, slightly glossy above. Belly and shoulder patches white. Wings and tail an iridescent greenish-purple. Under tail coverts and vent black. Tail is wedge-shaped at the end. In flight, wingtips white bordered with black, white shoulders. Similar to Black-billed Magpie, but slightly smaller, yellow bill and skin around face; no range overlap.

Length: 42 (cm) Wingspan: 61 (cm)

Voice:

Rising, nasal ayr or harsh, chattering jaah jaah jaah.

Habitat:

Oak savannah, pastures, and riparian woodlands.

Behavior:

Gregarious. Large flocks often seen roosting or foraging together on the ground. Aggressively mobs predators.

Feeding:

Diet includes insects, especially grasshoppers, carrion, grains, and fruits. May rob nests.