Javan Green Magpie

Found only in the montane forests of western Java, the Javan Green Magpie is a striking member of the crow family. This bird measures 31 to 33 cm in length and is recognized by its vivid green body, russet wings, and a black mask across the eyes. Its beak and eye rings are a bright red, matching its red or orange legs. While adult plumage is green, young birds start with bluish feathers and beige-brown beaks, only turning green after they first moult.

These magpies live at heights ranging from 500 m to 2,000 m. They prefer the forest interior but sometimes visit the edges or nearby tea gardens to find food. Their diet is varied, consisting mainly of invertebrates like snails, beetles, and crabs. When breeding, they also hunt small vertebrates including frogs, lizards, and even other birds. They build nests from bamboo and twigs just 2 to 3 meters above the forest floor, where they usually lay one or two cream-colored eggs.

Once a common sight, the species has vanished from much of its range. Only about 50 individuals may remain in the wild, limited to just four protected areas. The greatest threats to their survival are the loss of their forest habitat and illegal trapping. Because of their beautiful colors, they are highly sought after for the pet trade. To prevent their disappearance, conservationists have established captive breeding programs in Java and Europe, which now hold approximately 50 birds.