I would not agree with the use of “still”. Whilst the common name magpie was copied from the magpie (Pica pica) of England. Like a lot of bird names. I don’t
see any record that our magpie was ever named as part of the genus Pica. And no reason why they would be. They are quite different. From what I can find the early group name was “Crow-shrike” before “magpie” was used.
And I wouldn’t be taking ornithological advice from Eddie McGuire. It is not exactly clear that the pica relates to the European magpie at all, just going by
this quote. If so, it is a little bit dopey. Though pica is easier for football fans (I mean Collingwood fans) to say, than Gymnorhina. Though I hate to say it but Hawthorn have a mounted Wedge-tailed Eagle at their headquarters (or used to). Not sure if this
is still used or if they might have gifted it to West Coast………….
Philip
The motto 'Floreat Pica' features on the front of the club's 1974 Christmas card. He had some trouble finding a Latin word for Magpie, but scholars assured
him, pica, meaning 'part-coloured', would suffice. ... Rush's inspired suggestion – 'May the Magpie prosper' – remains the club's motto to this day.
A second story proposes that the name came from the large numbers of Magpies that nested in the area. Collingwood residents were endeared
to the feisty little birds that hit you from behind because they could see much of themselves in such actions.
From: Canberrabirds [
On Behalf Of calyptorhynchus via Canberrabirds
Sent: Wednesday, 10 February, 2021 8:53 AM
To:
Subject: Re: [Canberrabirds] Magpies??
I wonder if when Collingwood was founded and the motto written the Australian Magpie wasn’t still classified in the genus Pica?
On Tue, 9 Feb 2021 at 19:28 Dr David Rosalky <> wrote:
After hearing the tearful resignation of Eddie Maguire several times, I finally discerned what he said at the end.
Apparently, the motto of the club is “May the Magpies Flourish” which he said in Latin “Floreat Pica”.
Oops!! Wrong magpie.
☹
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