Award-Nominated Photo Puts Taiwan’s Blue Magpie in Global Spotlight

A photograph of a Formosan blue magpie carrying a stolen coat hanger through the Taipei skyline has earned wildlife photographer Marie Bell a place among the finalists in the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. Bell says it took more than three years of tracking the birds and help from local residents to capture the rare nesting behavior. The image, titled Urban Architect, also highlights how wildlife adapts to city life. Bell hopes the recognition will draw attention to Taiwan’s urban biodiversity and encourage greater protection for animals living alongside people in rapidly developing environments.