Red-Billed Blue-Magpie
Urocissa erythroryncha
Aves › Passeriformes › Corvidae › Urocissa
Conservation status: least_concern
The red-billed blue magpie is a species of bird (magpie) in the crow family, Corvidae. It is about the same size as the Eurasian magpie, but has a much longer tail, one of the longest of any corvid. It is 65–68 cm (25.5–27 in) long and weighs 196–232 g (6.9–8.2 oz).
How To Identify
A medium-sized corvid defined by brilliant cobalt blue plumage, which contrasts sharply with its distinctive bright red bills and often noticeable reddish markings on the wings or tail.
Habitat
It typically inhabits forested areas, woodlands, and scrublands in the Himalayan foothills and eastern Asian mountain ranges at elevations of 1,500–3,000 meters.
Behaviour
These birds are highly vocal and gregarious, often seen in energetic flocks that forage together for insects, fruits, and small vertebrates, while maintaining constant communication with loud, raucous calls.
Native Range
The northern parts of the Indian subcontinent, and further eastwards, ranging from the western Himalayas eastwards into Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, and through central and eastern China to southwest Manchuria.
Did You Know?
Red-billed Blue-Magpies are highly social birds that often travel in noisy flocks of up to 10 individuals, performing acrobatic aerial displays while vocalizing with distinctive harsh calls. Their striking appearance—with deep blue plumage, red bill, and long tail—makes them one of Asia's most visually arresting corvids.
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