Australian Magpie

Song & Calls

Male Australian Magpie (Cracticus tibicen)

One of Australia’s most familiar bird species, the Australian Magpie (Cracticus tibicen) is a medium-large songbird found throughout mainland Australia, Tasmania and also in southern New Guinea. Preferring open habitats, Australian Magpies spend much time foraging on the ground. They are often in family groups consisting of a dominant pair along with younger birds raised in previous seasons.

The fine, fluty song of the Australian Magpie is a much-loved sound of the Australian bush. Loud, melodious carolling phrases are often given as a duet or group, with the first notes usually initiated by the dominant male or female. This species makes a variety of other vocalizations with some local variations as well. Australian Magpies sometimes sing at night, as can be heard in the ‘moonlight song’ (XC218068b) recording below.

Listen to Australian Magpie Sounds

This video soundscape features Australian Magpies singing prominently in the foreground, with the sounds of many other species in the background.

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Australian Magpie – Typical carolling song

XC200287 This first recording features the typical carolling song of an Australian Magpie. Recorded in Wyperfeld National Park, Victoria.

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Australian Magpie – Group singing

XC269695 This next recording is a group of birds singing in the early morning. Recorded in Capertee National Park, New South Wales.

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Australian Magpie – Night song

XC218068b An example of night song – this recording captures singing at around 3am on a moonlit night in Capertee National Park, New South Wales. These repetitive phrases are typical of the night song of Australian Magpies. In the background Powerful Owl (Ninox strenua) and Eastern Grey Kangaroo (Macropus giganteus) can also be heard.