Before moving to Utah, I asked a birder friend about what species I might expect in the Salt Lake City area. “Magpies,” came the reply. “Lots and lots of magpies.”

And it was true. They’re all over the place, flitting about in roving gangs, gleaning food from any old place, yesterday evening picking at the little rubber nubs on the tire of my truck. I know their voices now, and some of their behavior. They’re smart, playful, daring—and have been known to behave annoyingly.

I kinda like ’em, though.

East Millcreek List
No mountain hike today, but here’s what I saw and/or heard.

1. House Sparrow
2. Eurasian Collared Dove
3. Black-billed Magpie
4. House Finch
5. Black-capped Chickadee (v)
6. Lesser Goldfinch
7. California Quail
8. Mourning Dove
9. Rock Pigeon

v = Voice only