The Javan green magpie (Cissa thalassina) is a passerine bird in the crow family, Corvidae, endemic to montane forests on the island of Western Java, Indonesia. This critically endangered species was once more widespread, but it has suffered significant population declines due to habitat loss and illegal capture for the wild animal trade.
Once common, it is now found in only four protected areas, with estimates of the remaining wild population being as low as 50 individuals. While others speculate that the lack of recent sightings might mean that it already is extinct in the wild.
In an attempt at saving the species, the Javan green magpie has been part of a captive breeding program since 2011. A captive breeding program based on confiscated individuals has been initiated by the Cikananga Wildlife Center in Java and a few European EAZA zoos starting in 2015. It has successfully bred at both the Javan and European facilities,
It formerly included the Bornean green magpie as a subspecies, in which case the "combined" species was known as the short-tailed magpie.
Distribution and habitat
The Javan green magpie is restricted to a small range in western Java, where it has been recorded in Mount Merapi National Park, Mount Halimun Salak National Park, Mount Gede Pangrango National Park and South Parahyangan Practice Forest and Nature Reserve.
Behaviour and ecology
The Javan green magpie feeds primarily on invertebrates, including snails, crustaceans, isopods, scarab beetles, and other insects. and are altricial, hatching with no feathers, completely dependant on their parents. A fledgeling's initial plumage is bluish, with the dark face and wing markings. They have beige-brown beaks and eyerings with light orange legs. They become green after their first moult.