Asir Magpie
Pica asirensis
A crow-like bird with a long, narrow tail. Flashy black-and-white pattern distinctive within range. An endangered species, this is a rare but conspicuous bird of juniper forest and riverine scrub between 2200–3000m in the Asir massif of southwestern Saudia Arabia, where it typically moves in pairs and small family groups. Very vocal, often giving loud querulous grating “kuaynk-kuaynk” calls and high-pitched woodpecker-like “keenk” notes. Does not overlap in range with Eurasian Magpie, but Asir has less white in the plumage, a larger bill, and a shorter tail.
Identification
The Asir magpie (Pica asirensis) is about 45–60 cm (18–24 in) long, and its approximate weight is 240 g (8.5 oz). Its head, neck, back, front chest, and feet are all black. Its shoulders and belly are milk white. Its tail is black with bronze-green metallic luster. Compared to the Eurasian magpie, the Asir magpie has longer bill, darker plumage, and darker iris. Its vocalization is distinct, and it also gives harsh high-pitched calls. There is no large difference between males and females, but young Asir magpies are duller than adults.
Taxonomy
- Scientific name
- Pica asirensis
- Authority
- Bates, GL, 1936
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Corvidae
- Genus
- Pica
Range and habitat
The Asir magpie primarily lives above 2,150 m (7,050 ft) in thick shady juniper forests or dense mixed forests. It usually lives on south-facing slopes and avoids living on slopes larger than 30 degrees or near a human site. Sometimes, the Asir magpie is also observed foraging on roadsides or living at 1,800 m (5,900 ft) and higher.
- Migration
- Resident species
Behavior
During breeding seasons, the Asir magpies often group in pairs and live in flocks. Each of the flock approximately contains 8 birds. However, the Asir magpies travel in small groups of 3-5 birds for daily activities. In order to protect themselves from predators such as hawks and owls, they build their nests in forests and valleys with plentiful vegetation covered.<p>Compared to flying, the Asir magpies prefer walking and hopping sideways. Since their size is small and their wings are short, they fly with fast wing beats, and they rarely glide.
Conservation
- Population trend
- declining
Photos
Distribution
Bird Calls
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