Magpie on Western Coast of Baranof Island

Observation by Andrew Atkinson:

Never seen a magpie on Baranof Island.

Comments from LEO Editors:

According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Baranof Island is not within in the usual species range for the black-billed magpie (Pica hudsonia). Magpies are found in southern Alaska, from the Alaska Peninsula, across Southcentral, and on the mainland in Southeast. They prefer open areas such as meadows and grasslands, and tend to avoid dense woods. Their diet is extensive: they feed primarily on carrion, as well as small mammals, bugs, and bird eggs. In Southcentral Alaska, magpies will attempt to raid seagull nests in the spring. When this happens, steer clear of the nesting area! Erica Lujan