I have not seen a magpie in Boise for years. Has there been a disease or something that has killed all the magpies?
Answer:
When West Nile Virus made its appearance in Idaho a few years back, magpies were one of the species that were heavily impacted by the disease. Their populations were noticeably reduced, but now they are starting to come back. Although we're not seeing them as frequently as we used to, they are still in Boise city limits and their numbers are increasing. Keep your eyes open for them!
Answered on:
Monday, September 10, 2012 - 9:47 AM MDT