It was recognizable to me at once because I am familiar with the Eurasian Magpie. It looks very much like them. And others felt the same for a long time! Just read this on the American Magpie Wikipedia:
It was once thought to be a subspecies of the Eurasian magpie (Pica pica), but was placed into its own species in 2000 based on genetic studies.
How about that. I had not realized there were magpies in the United States.
They’re common in some areas, like around me in Denver, but they’re one of my favorites! https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Black-billed_Magpie
And look well-nigh identical to the UK Magpie - though the Latin name is different.
A young one from yesterday for contrast:
It was recognizable to me at once because I am familiar with the Eurasian Magpie. It looks very much like them. And others felt the same for a long time! Just read this on the American Magpie Wikipedia:
TY