PIPING GROW. — Gymnorluna tibicen. 
The large and important family of the Crows now comes before us. 
The Piping Crow Shrike, sometimes called the Magpie by the colonists, on 
account of its magpie-like white and black plumage, is a native of New South 
Wales, and, towards the interior, is very plentiful. 
This bird is found in almost every part of the country ; preferring, however, 
the open localities to the wooded districts, especially if they are cleared by 
artificial means. For the Piping Crow Shrike is a wonderfully trustful bird, 
attaching itself instinctively to mankind, and haunting the vicinity of barns and 
farmyards. On the very slightest encouragement, the bird will take possession 
of a barn, garden, or plantation ; and, with the exception of a favoured few, will 
not suffer any of his friends to intrude upon his property. The owner of the 
garden is well repaid for his hospitality, by the rich and varied song which the 
bird pours forth in the early morning and towards evening, as if in gratitude for 
the protection which has been afforded it. 
