The Oriental Magpie-Robin is one of the most admired songbirds of Asia, admired for its beautiful melody, bold personality, and striking black-and-white plumage. It is also the national bird of Bangladesh and a favorite among bird photographers and nature lovers.
1. Scientific Classification (Taxonomy)
Common Name: Oriental Magpie-Robin
Scientific Name: Copsychus saularis
Family: Muscicapidae
Order: Passeriformes
Class: Aves
Kingdom: Animalia
2. Identification & Physical Description
Size: 19–23 cm (7.5–9 inches)
Weight: 30–44 grams
Male Plumage:
Jet black head, back, and upper breast
White belly, wing patches, and tail sides
Female Plumage:
Greyish-black instead of jet black
Similar white underparts
Eyes: Dark brown
Beak: Slim, black
Legs: Dark grey to black
This contrast of black and white coloration gives the bird its “magpie” appearance.
3. Geographic Distribution
The Oriental Magpie-Robin is widely distributed across:
Indian Subcontinent: India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Pakistan
Southeast Asia: Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia
East Asia: Southern China, Taiwan
It is a resident bird in most parts of its range.
4. Natural Habitat
This bird adapts well to different environments:
Gardens and parks
Forest edges
Open woodlands
Farmlands
Urban residential areas
It prefers open spaces with nearby trees and bushes.
5. Behavior & Personality
Highly territorial, especially during breeding season
Often seen hopping on the ground
Frequently flicks its tail up and down
Active during early morning and late evening
Bold and not easily frightened by humans
6. Diet & Feeding Habits
The Oriental Magpie-Robin is primarily insectivorous.
Main Diet Includes:
Ants
Beetles
Grasshoppers
Termites
Spiders
Small worms
Occasional Foods:
Berries
Small fruits
Nectar
It plays an important role in natural pest control.
7. Breeding & Nesting
Breeding Season: March to July (varies by location)
Nest Type: Cup-shaped
Nest Locations: Tree cavities, wall holes, building crevices, abandoned pots
Eggs Laid: 3–5 eggs
Egg Color: Pale greenish or bluish with brown spots
Incubation Period: 12–15 days
Both parents actively feed the chicks
8. Voice & Song
The Oriental Magpie-Robin is famous for its rich, melodious song:
Clear whistles
Sharp calls
Ability to mimic other bird sounds
Males sing to attract females and defend territory
It is often called the “Morning Singer of Asia.”
9. Lifespan
Average Lifespan: 5–10 years in the wild
Can live longer in protected environments
10. Conservation Status
According to the IUCN Red List:
Status: Least Concern (LC)
Population Trend: Stable
However, habitat loss and urban pollution can affect local populations.
11. Ecological Importance
Controls insect populations
Helps maintain ecological balance
Acts as a bio-indicator of healthy environments
Enhances natural soundscape with its song
12. Cultural & National Importance
National Bird of Bangladesh
Symbol of joy, love, and purity in South Asian folklore
Widely kept as a songbird in the past
13. Interesting Facts About Oriental Magpie-Robin
It can recognize human faces in urban areas
Performs tail-flicking displays while singing
Known to sing even at night under bright moonlight
Often uses man-made structures for nesting
14. Threats
Deforestation
Urbanization
Pesticide use reducing insect food
Illegal bird trapping in some regions
15. Protection & How You Can Help
Plant native shrubs and trees
Avoid pesticide use in gardens
Provide water bowls for birds
Protect nesting sites
Support wildlife conservation programs
16. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Is the Oriental Magpie-Robin aggressive?
Yes, it becomes highly territorial during breeding season.
Q2. Can it live near humans?
Absolutely. It thrives in urban gardens and parks.
Q3. What does it mainly eat?
Insects, worms, and small invertebrates.
Q4. Why is it called a Magpie-Robin?
Due to its black-and-white coloration like a magpie and robin-like body shape.