My yard was visited by a gang of black-billed magpies today. They played games on the roof, frolicked in the wet grass, and snacked on insects while I got some photos:
When I came outside to investigate sounds on the metal roof, I found 10 or more magpies taking turns sliding down the gutter! When they got to the bottom, they'd hop back up along the side, wait in line, and then slide down once again.
After that, they split up into teams, and went looking for snacks. This pair worked together to clean up all the snails, earwigs, centipedes, caterpillars, and other insect pests I didn't want around. Thanks!
Magpies are one of the most intelligent creatures on Earth. They're closely related to crows (but I find them much less annoying). They have a bad reputation in some regions/cultures, and magpies have long been the subject of human superstitions.
I'm going to reserve my judgment. I warned this group they're welcome in the yard as long as they don't mess with my garden. I can and will defend my veggies!
That clip is small, but it gives you a general idea of their behavior. Clever, curious, and spirited!
By the way, while out in the yard, I checked on my peas, and they're doing really well:
Have a great week!
DRutter