A parliament of magpies in the ash tree

On another damp and dismal late winter day, I watched birds from my study before I managed to finish my tasks, mostly writing emails. 

I saw a nuthatch and a woodpecker close at hand as well as brief glimpses of blackcaps, tits, long-tailed tits, a bullfinch, a chaffinch and a couple of goldfinches all eating from the bird feeders. My interest was aroused when I saw this gathering of magpies on the top branches of the ash tree at the bottom of the garden.

Within a few minutes more and more arrived at which point I took this picture. I think I can spot at least twenty magpies and a sole jackdaw's back. I'm informed that such a gathering, which often happens in springtime, is called a 'parliament' of magpies. But there are other terms for the gatherings, such as 'a conventicle, gulp, mischief, tidings or tribe of magpies'. That is according to one online source, Arthur Fisher, from the UK. Rick Klugman in the USA said 'magpies mate for life. Also they often live in fairly large groups. When they do this the group is a matriarchal society; Mama rules the roost. After hatching and fledging the babies often stick around and help to build a bigger nest'.

They dispersed not long after, but I think this is part of their socialisation. Apparently they mate for life so perhaps this is part of the start of the mating season rituals.