That Black-and-White Bird with a Long Tail in Montana? Meet the Magpie

Ever notice a bold, black-and-white bird strutting around Montana and wonder, “What is that black and white bird in Montana?” That’s the black-billed magpie—flashy, clever, and impossible to ignore. With its long tail, glossy feathers, and loud personality, it’s one of Montana’s most famous and talkative birds.

Meet Montana’s Black and White Bird: Flashy, Feisty, and Fabulous

Magpies aren’t exactly shy. With their bold contrast of glossy black and bright white feathers and that shimmering blue-green sheen on their wings, they’re easy to spot and even easier to hear. Their chatty squawks echo through valleys and backyards alike, making them both entertaining and sometimes… a little loud.The black-billed magpie is one of Montana’s most striking birds, easily recognized by its bold black-and-white plumage and long, elegant tail that often makes up more than half its body length. Its glossy black feathers shimmer with hints of blue and green iridescence in the sunlight, especially along the wings and tail. The magpie’s white belly and shoulder patches create a sharp contrast that stands out against Montana’s open skies and prairie landscapes. With a sturdy black bill, intelligent dark eyes, and a confident posture, the magpie looks every bit as clever and curious as it actually is.

Smart, Social, and a Little Sneaky

These birds are part of the crow family, which means they’re extremely intelligent. Magpies have been known to use tools, recognize their reflections in mirrors, and even remember human faces. They live in social groups and often form tight family bonds—working together to protect nests and gather food.

They also have a mischievous side. Shiny objects? Fair game. Leftover crumbs from your picnic? Consider them claimed. But their boldness is part of what makes them so fascinating to watch.

Where to Spot Them in Montana

Magpies thrive across most of Montana, especially in open rangeland, valleys, and forest edges. You’ll often see them perched on fence posts, scavenging along country roads, or hopping through campgrounds looking for snacks.

From the Gallatin Valley to the Highline, magpies are a constant reminder of Montana’s wild personality—adaptable, clever, and unafraid to make some noise.

Why Montanans Love (and Sometimes Curse) Them

Some folks adore magpies for their beauty and brains. Others see them as troublemakers—especially around bird feeders or nesting season. But love them or not, they’re an undeniable part of Montana’s landscape and folklore.

A Symbol of the Wild West Spirit

With their sharp minds, stubborn independence, and flashy looks, magpies fit right into the Montana scene. They’re survivors, storytellers, and a little bit showy—just like the state itself.