The European Magpie (Pica pica) is a resident breeding bird throughout Europe, much of Asia, and northwest Africa.
The Magpie is common in European folklore, with multiple superstitions surrounding it. Generally speaking, the bird is associated with unhappiness and trouble. This may be because of its well known tendency to "steal" shiny objects. Also magpies are not blessed with it pretty singing voice. Related to crows, the cries of the magpies are very similar.
The name “pelican” derived from the Greek word pelekys, meaning “axe” and applied to birds that cut wood with their bills or beaks.
The Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs), also called by a wide variety of other names, is a small passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae.
European starling (Sturnus vulgaris).
This species naturally occurs in Europe, from Norway and northern Russia, south to the Mediterranean region. European starlings typically congregate in large groups called flocks, except during the breeding season. Flocking together helps protect them from predators by increasing the number of birds that can watch for predators. Birds in the flock quickly warn others about the approach of a predator.
More images at: Kevrekidis Photography
© 2011 Jordan Kevrekidis
