The common green magpie (Cissa chinensis) is a type of magpie bird belonging to the genus Corvidae.
Wow...what an amazing photo...right? What are the chances I would be so close to get such detail of such an exotic bird feeding? Well, probably very few, and when you see a photo that is so close, or too good to be true (frogs with plant umbrellas, lizards on top of lizards) then it is probably set up, baited, sometimes even glued, and certainly does not have the animals best welfare at heart.
This is the reality below and my original photo: a "feeding station" set up branch, in an urban park, with live bait, as you can see the centipede is tied to the branch. There were around 15 other photographers there, waiting for this opportunity. I left after taking this shot, as I did not want to participate further.
Aside from a record shot which I can use I would question the value of such photography, even saying it is immoral. Under HK's new laws, all feeding of wild animals is now forbidden, so I am sure that this will stop soon.
Another point is that this is an "exotic" species, ie introduced to Hong Kong, and not native. It has now started stable breeding areas as in the Northeast NT. Not enough is known yet to classify this as an "invasive" species, and whether it will have a negative impact on the native ecology.
In contrast, I submit my earlier photos of this bird, in the wild as I found this bird calling as I walked in Luk Keng last year.
It is normally found in evergreen forests across southeast Asia, mainly in northeast India, central Thailand, and Malaysia. They do not migrate.
They typically form mated pairs for life and have been known to live for 10-15 years.
If born and brought up in captivity, this bird species have been known to be traded as pets...which is where some of these released individuals probably came from. However, a highly social and intelligent bird perhaps should not be kept in a cage...eh? What do you think?
These birds are strictly carnivorous in nature, and will mostly kill and eat small invertebrates, reptiles, mammals, and often other young birds, for example in nests, or eating the eggs.
Side note:
All pets should only be bought from a reputable source. It is recommended that as a potential pet owner you carry out your own research prior to deciding on your pet of choice. Being a pet owner is very rewarding but it also involves commitment, time and money. Ensure that your pet choice complies with the legislation in your state and/or country. You must never take animals from the wild or disturb their habitat. Please check that the pet you are considering buying is not an endangered species, or listed on the CITES list, and has not been taken from the wild for the pet trade.
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