Black-billed Magpie song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Black-billed Magpie, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Magpies do not have a complex song in the traditional sense. Their vocalizations are a series of harsh, chattering, and sometimes musical calls.

Calls

Most common calls include a rapid, harsh 'mag-mag-mag' or 'chug-chug-chug', a rising 'chek-chek-chek', and various other squawks, whistles, and gurgles. They are known for their varied and often noisy vocalizations.

When they vocalize

Vocalize year-round, but particularly active and noisy during the breeding season and when communicating within flocks.

Explore the Black-billed Magpie