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Roar & Rove

Ceylon Magpie

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Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Near Threatened (NT)

LIFE SPAN
  • In the Wild: Typically 5-10 years
  • In Captivity: Can live up to 15 years
Body size
  • Length: Approximately 42-47 cm (16.5-18.5 inches)
  • Weight: Ranges from 196-208 grams (6.9-7.3 ounces)
Native habitat
  • Geographical Range: Endemic to Sri Lanka
  • Habitat: Prefers subtropical or tropical moist montane forests and lowland rainforests. It can also be found in dense scrub and secondary forests.
Diet
  • Insects: A primary food source, including beetles, caterpillars, and grasshoppers.
  • Fruits and Seeds: Especially during certain seasons.
  • Small Vertebrates: Such as frogs, lizards, and small birds.
  • Nectar: Occasionally consumed from flowers.
Ceylon Magpie (Urocissa ornata)

The Ceylon Magpie is a striking and charismatic bird native to the forests of Sri Lanka. Known for its vibrant plumage and sociable behavior, this bird is a true gem of the island’s avian diversity.

Physical Characteristics: The Ceylon Magpie measures about 42-47 cm (16.5-18.5 inches) in length and weighs between 196-208 grams (6.9-7.3 ounces). It is easily recognizable by its bright blue body, chestnut head, neck, and wing coverts, and long, graduated tail. The bird’s underparts are white, and it features a thick, yellow bill and legs, adding to its colorful and distinctive appearance.

Habitat: This magpie thrives in subtropical or tropical moist montane forests and lowland rainforests. It can also be found in dense scrub and secondary forests. In Sri Lanka, the Ceylon Magpie is often seen in protected areas such as the Sinharaja Forest Reserve and Horton Plains National Park, which provide ideal habitats for this species.

Diet: The diet of the Ceylon Magpie is diverse, primarily consisting of:

  • Insects (e.g., beetles, caterpillars, grasshoppers)
  • Fruits and seeds (particularly during certain seasons)
  • Small vertebrates (e.g., frogs, lizards, small birds)
  • Nectar (occasionally consumed from flowers)
    This bird forages both in the trees and on the ground, using its keen eyesight and agility to find food.

 

Behavior: The Ceylon Magpie is known for its social and vocal nature. It often moves in small family groups and communicates with a variety of loud, melodious calls. These birds are highly territorial and exhibit complex social interactions. Their nests are built in trees, where they lay and incubate their eggs. The Ceylon Magpie’s curious and intelligent nature makes it a fascinating subject for bird watchers.

Conservation Status: According to the IUCN Red List, the Ceylon Magpie is classified as Near Threatened (NT) due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Conservation efforts focus on preserving their natural habitats, reforestation, and raising awareness about the importance of protecting this unique species.

Lifespan: In the wild, the Ceylon Magpie typically lives between 5-10 years, but it can live up to 15 years in captivity under optimal care.