- Lifespan
- 4–5 years in the wild, up to 16 years in captivity
- Size & Weight
- 32–34 cm, wingspan 64–73 cm; 200–270 g
- Habitat
- Open woodlands, farmland, parkland, coastal cliffs, and urban areas including towns and villages.
- UK Distribution
- Found throughout the UK as a resident species, with populations bolstered by continental migrants in winter, particularly in southern and eastern regions.
- Diet
- Omnivorous, feeding on insects, spiders, seeds, grains, fruits, and carrion; highly opportunistic and will scavenge human food waste.
- Prey
- Invertebrates including beetles, larvae, grasshoppers, and earthworms; also small vertebrates and eggs.
- Predators
- Sparrowhawks, peregrines, and common kestrels; eggs and chicks taken by magpies, carrion crows, and stoats.
- Mating Season
- March to July
- Breeding
- Clutch of 4–5 eggs, incubation period 17–18 days, fledging at 28–35 days; typically single-brooded, occasionally two broods.
- Behaviour
- Highly social and gregarious, often seen in flocks, particularly outside breeding season. Distinguished by striking pale eyes and ear-coverts. Known for playful, acrobatic flight and loud, distinctive calls.