Australian Magpie

Makipai is a large introduced black-and-white songbird now widespread through New Zealand open country. The heavy pale bill, black head and bold white nape or back distinguish it from native birds; plumage pattern varies between introduced Australian forms.

It is common across much of the North and South islands in farmland and urban grassland but scarce in dense forest. Family groups walk on the ground for worms and insects, sing complex carolling songs and defend nest territories aggressively in spring.

Pasture, road verges, sports fields and parks throughout settled New Zealand provide easy sightings.