This is a relative of the European magpie (Pica pica) and is about the same size in body - but with an extremely long tail that looks like it has been dipped in white paint. The total length can therefore amount to 68 cm. Note the red bill and the black head. The bird is quite shy (this individual is photographed from a hide) and difficult to approach. In the distance, however, you can see family groups of a couple or more individuals. The diet consists of invertebrates, small mammals, fruit and seeds. The blue magpie also takes eggs and nestlings from bird nests.